LifeChanger of the Year Nominee Profile

Gabriel Waite-Wollenburg, also known as "Mr. Gabe," was nominated by a student.

"Mr. Gabe teaches WINLab at Kettle Moraine High School. WINLab stands for 'What I Need Lab.' Mr. Gabe helps others while also making them laugh. He isn't hard on students, but he loves to see them succeed and grow each day they come into his class," said the student. "I'm not even in his class, but he welcomes me in with open arms; he helps me even if he's not helping with school work; he listens and gives the best advice. Mr. Gabe is a one-of-a-kind teacher, and I wish everyone got a teacher like him at least once in their lifetime."

"One day, my friend said, 'Hey, you should come work in my WINLab. I have no other friends there; I think you'd like it.' I walk in and see a man I've never met. He sits at his desk, typing away. I say, 'Hey, I would like to work here. Am I welcome?' He says, 'Anyone is welcome.' This made me feel like he immediately understood who I was and knew he would be on for a real rollercoaster ride when I started coming in." said the student.

"With the many students he has in his 3rd block WINLab, he still makes time for all of his students. From that day forward, I came to WINLab not only to see my friend but also to see Mr. Gabe. His class brings joy to my day; it gives me a breath of fresh air. I feel free to be who I am. Aside from being the funniest person, he is helpful, even with last-minute assignments. One time, I needed four sources for my inquiry. I walked into his classroom asking for help, and with no hesitation, he offered to help. Mr. Gabe is a unique and one-in-a-million kind of teacher; he understands how students feel while also being a teacher, which is why I think he deserves the LifeChanger award," said the student.