LifeChanger of the Year Nominee Profile

Pakou Her was nominated by her friend, Paha Xiong. 

"It is with great pride and admiration that I nominate Pakou Her for this recognition," said Xiong. "As a dedicated high school social science teacher, Pakou Her exemplifies what it means to lead with purpose, compassion, and an unwavering commitment to student success. She is a living example of perseverance and excellence."

As a first-generation scholar, she has not only broken barriers for herself, but now serves as a beacon of inspiration for her students—many of whom come from similarly underrepresented backgrounds. Her journey, which includes studying abroad and gaining a global perspective, directly enriches her teaching of geography, US history, and ethnic studies—subjects she is deeply passionate about. She brings this passion into the classroom every day, crafting inclusive and culturally relevant lesson plans that reflect the diverse identities of her students.

"I have personally witnessed the thought, time, and heart she pours into weekly planning sessions at our local coffee shops on the weekends, always striving to meet her students where they are and help them grow. Her commitment to differentiated instruction, student voice, and community-centered learning is a testament to her belief in the power of education to transform lives," said Xiong.

Beyond her classroom, Ms. Her contributes meaningfully to the development of a positive and nurturing school culture. She leads with quiet strength, modeling empathy, professionalism, and integrity in all that she does. Whether mentoring, engaging in equity-focused initiatives, or simply offering a listening ear, she is seen as a trusted leader within her school community. She upholds the highest moral and ethical standards, consistently demonstrating humility, accountability, and a deep respect for others. She creates a classroom environment where every student feels valued, seen, and empowered to think critically about the world around them.

"Pakou Her is not just an excellent educator—she is a role model, a changemaker, and a true asset to her students, colleagues, and the broader educational community," said Xiong.