LifeChanger of the Year Nominee Profile

Nakisha Hobbs was nominated by her colleague, Kenya Joyce Hatch. 

Three words to describe Mrs. Hobbs are visionary, compassionate, and a trailblazer. Mrs. Hobbs exemplifies what it means to be a LifeChanger through her unwavering dedication to the students and families of It Takes a Village Family of Schools (ITAV), an organization she co-founded to create equitable educational opportunities. Her visionary leadership has transformed the lives of countless students by fostering an environment of excellence, equity, and empowerment.

Proven Ability to Make a Beneficial Difference in the Lives of Students: Mrs. Hobbs has been instrumental in creating programs supporting holistic development from early childhood through leadership development in adolescence. Her initiatives, like the ITAV Leadership Academy and the Liberated Voices Social Justice Libraries, equip students with the tools they need to become informed, empathetic, and socially conscious leaders.

Ability to Positively Add to the Development of the School's Atmosphere: Mrs. Hobbs has cultivated an atmosphere where every child feels seen, heard, and valued. By integrating innovative practices and culturally responsive teaching, she ensures that ITAV students excel academically and thrive emotionally and socially. Her commitment to fostering inclusivity and a deep sense of belonging permeates every aspect of the school.

Leadership Within Her School and District: As CEO, Mrs. Hobbs leads by example, inspiring her staff with her relentless drive to improve educational outcomes. Her leadership has expanded ITAV's footprint to multiple campuses, serving diverse communities across Chicago. Her advocacy extends beyond the school walls, engaging stakeholders to address systemic challenges and create long-term solutions for education equity.

A Record of Excellent Performance at the Professional Level: Mrs. Hobbs has consistently demonstrated excellence as an educator, leader, and innovator. Her ability to secure critical resources, such as the recent LISC grant for a gym renovation, reflects her strategic acumen and determination to enrich student experiences. She has also collaborated with organizations like Westside United and the Chicago Community Trust to drive impactful change.

Commitment to Producing a Nurturing Atmosphere: Mrs. Hobbs is deeply committed to the well-being of her students, often going above and beyond to ensure they feel supported. Whether through family engagement programs or creating safe spaces for students to express themselves, she nurtures every child as if they were hers.

Adherence to High Moral and Ethical Standards: Her work is grounded in integrity and a profound sense of responsibility to her community. Her commitment to social justice and equity drives every decision she makes, ensuring that her students receive a transformative and liberating education.

One winter, a family new to ITAV faced financial hardship and struggled to enroll their child. Mrs. Hobbs personally stepped in, connecting the family with resources, advocating for financial assistance, and ensuring their child had warm clothing and supplies. This situation wasn't just about retention—it was about demonstrating to the family that they were part of a community that cared deeply about their well-being. The child is now thriving and has become one of the school's top student leaders. Mrs. Hobbs embodies a LifeChanger, consistently transforming lives and creating a ripple effect of hope and opportunity in her community.