LifeChanger of the Year Nominee Profile

Stephanie Harden

Position: Health/P.E. Teacher/Girls' Flag Football Coach
School: Discovery High School
School District: Gwinnett County Public Schools
City, State: Lawrenceville, GA

Support Stephanie Leave a comment Get Updates

Stephanie Harden was nominated by a friend, Lakisha Tarver.

"Getcha Mind Right" is more than a phrase—it's a registered call to action and mindset championed by Coach Harden, a passionate educator and trailblazer in girls' athletics. As a head girls' flag football coach and a dedicated teacher, Coach Harden is committed to empowering students of all abilities through confidence-building, consistency, and care. Her mission is simple: "Challenge young people to work for it and at it, no matter the field of study."

Coach Harden's passion for mentorship and youth development began as a college student-teaching experience at a military base camp in Landstuhl, Germany. Since then, she's built a career of intentional impact, especially among at-risk youth. She is a two-time Teacher of the Year award recipient, recognized for her innovative strategies and ability to instill lasting, differential learning skills into every student she teaches. She leads with integrity, staying behind after every practice and game until the last ride arrives and building strong rapport by fostering mutual respect and open communication. Her athletes and students describe her as a role model who explains, inspires, and uplifts.

In just three years as head coach of Discovery High School's girls' flag football program, Coach Harden has established the school's first-ever junior varsity and varsity teams. Under her leadership, the program received the Arthur M. Blank – Atlanta Falcons Grant, opening doors for student-athletes to compete safely while being exposed to higher education through visits to UGA, Point University, and Rhinehart University. Her players have earned district-wide recognition, and, for the first time in school history, one of her athletes received and accepted a scholarship to play college flag football.

Coach Harden brings real-life lessons to every sideline and classroom. She collaborates with local organizations to promote academic achievement, college readiness, and holistic wellness—physical, mental, spiritual, and social. Her commitment to uplifting youth extended beyond the classroom when, during her time in College Park, she founded a group home—Twin Opportunities—inspired by a set of twin brothers she helped find greater purpose and possibility in life.

Coach Harden is more than a coach—she's a LifeChanger. Her influence reaches far beyond the football field, shaping confident, disciplined, and self-aware young women and students of all abilities to be ready to face challenges and pursue their goals.

85 125 115 107 105

Comments (13)

V Reeves Posted over a year ago

?? Celebrating a Life Changer: Stephen Harden ?? Today, I want to shine a light on someone truly extraordinary—Stephen Harden. She is more than an educator; she is a life changer, a role model, a mentor, and a coach who has poured her heart into every student and athlete she’s encountered. Since entering the field of education, Stephen has been known as a die-hard educator—committed, passionate, and relentless in her pursuit of excellence. Her impact is felt not only in the classroom but throughout the community, where she gives back selflessly and consistently. To capture the essence of who she is, let’s break down her name—STEPHANIE—into the powerful qualities she embodies: S – Supportive: Always there to lift others up and provide guidance. T – Tenacious: Faces every challenge with strength and determination. E – Empowering: Inspires others to believe in themselves and reach higher. P – Passionate: Brings energy and love to everything she teaches and coaches. H – Honest: Leads with integrity, transparency, and authenticity. A – Adaptable: Embraces change and meets every student where they are. N – Nurturing: Cares deeply for the growth and well-being of others. I – Innovative: Always finding new ways to engage, teach, and inspire. E – Exemplary: A shining example of what it means to be an educator and leader. Stephen is a brilliant health and physical education teacher, and her coaching is filled with heart, hustle, and hope. I’ve known her for several years, and I can say without a doubt—she is one of a kind. Her dedication, her spirit, and her love for her students and community are unmatched. I would be honored to be one of her students or athletes. And I am so proud of this unique individual who continues to change lives every single day. ?? Thank you, Stephen Harden, for being the incredible person you are. The world is better because of you!

Quentin Motley Posted over a year ago

I'm very proud of you. Keep up the GOOD Work. Students are the Focus.

Aljeana Bellamy Posted over a year ago

Stephanie, may your gifts continue to make room for you!! I wish you nothing but the absolute best!!??

Linda Posted over a year ago

Congratulations Stephanie you always been a go getter keep working with the kids and your aunt very proud of you. Love you girl

Taina Galarza Posted over a year ago

Coach Harden brings out the best in her students. She holds them accountable and treats them with love. She supports them on and off the field. She encourages them to push themselves past their comfort zones and try new things. She helps them understand the importance of their roles on the field and off the field. I am honored to have her as a part of my village. She has made a profound impact on our daughter’s life.

Tameka Lamb Posted over a year ago

Stephanie, has impacted my life in a way that she will never know. She is one of few people I can call when I need honesty and to "Get my mind Right." When she gives me just that, I know it's coming from a place of love. Congratulations, Stephanie. In my world you are the WINNER!

Judith Posted over a year ago

Coach Harden has dedicated her life to encouraging and inspiring others!

Bishop Summerset Posted over a year ago

I am so proud of a young lady who gives her all in making a difference in the lives of all she is around. Stephanie, you are a special gift . We love you ????????????

Blue Heart Journey Posted over a year ago

I am endlessly proud of Stephanie and the way her leadership is enveloped in love, purpose, and presence. What makes her stand out isn’t just her ability to guide a team or make smart decisions—it’s how she shows up, fully and authentically, for the people around her. She listens deeply, lifts others up, and leads with both courage and compassion. Whether she’s mentoring someone one-on-one, navigating a challenging moment, or quietly noticing what others miss, her impact is always intentional and powerful. I’ve seen her light up when she’s building something that matters, when she’s helping others find their voice, and when she knows her work is making a difference. Watching her lead is inspiring—not because she seeks recognition, but because she genuinely loves what she does. This nomination is a beautiful reflection of who she is, and I couldn’t be more proud to see her celebrated for the leader she’s always been.

Joyce Posted over a year ago

Coach Harden has always been dedicated to helping youth. She has been instrumental in encouraging youth to finish High School as well as College. Coach Harden has introduced students to a better way of life through education and career choices. She has often reminded them through one of her favorite sayings, " Getcha Mind Right". As her mom, I am very proud of her. Thanks Coach, for all you do.

Aeriell Jordan Posted over a year ago

Aw this is so amazing! Stephanie is a primary definition of a leader, role model, and most importantly… a life changer. I am so grateful to have her in my life and blessed to call her my God Sister! Congratulations Step and love you much!!!

Elda Posted over a year ago

Yay! Go Stephanie! The sweetest person I know and so passionate and dedicated with everything and everyone she works for. Being in someone’s life is one thing but changing it is another. There is no one else who deserves this than Stephanie. I’m proud to be a person who has been fortunate to meet and know Stephanie!

Tracie Harden Posted over a year ago

Congratulations Stephanie! You’ve been changing lives for a very long time and ignited the “fire” in many others to changes the lives of our youth, in a positive ways. Keep being THE GOAT you are