LifeChanger of the Year Nominee Profile

Reziel Alarcon was nominated by Jamie Devera, her colleague. 

"I would like to nominate Ms. Reziel Alarcon, a dedicated educator and School-Based Behavioral Health Counselor with more than 20 years of meaningful experience. She creates a nurturing and inclusive learning environment where students of all backgrounds can reach their full potential, in spaces where emotional and mental safety are prioritized. Her work focuses on helping students develop a strong self-concept and healthy self-respect, cultivate motivation to learn, take ownership of their behavior and achievements, and pursue growth that leads to success both in and outside of school," said Devera.

For the past decade, Ms. Alarcon has served as the advisor for the Nanakuli Red Cross Club, helping it thrive and grow. In addition, she advises the Hawaii Chapter Red Cross Club, which brings together students from schools without an individual club, including Punahou, Kamehameha, Maryknoll, Kapolei, Waianae, Iolani, Moanalua, Farrington, and schools across the islands. Her mission is to inspire, guide, and empower students to launch their own initiatives, building leadership, teamwork, responsibility, and a lifelong commitment to service.

Ms. Reziel's resilience and dedication are unwavering. She sees each student as an individual and strives to meet their unique needs. Beyond school walls, she actively volunteers her time to help install free smoke alarms, educate residents about fire safety, and support communities impacted by COVID-19, offering additional resources and emotional support.

As a certified Hands-Only CPR instructor, Ms. Reziel has led training sessions in multiple schools and community organizations. She also teaches K–2 students about disaster preparedness through the engaging "Prepare with Pedro" storytelling program, introducing critical survival skills through a "Learn, Practice, Share" approach. Her efforts have not gone unnoticed. Ms. Reziel and her ohana were named Red Cross Heroes and received the Ola Pono Award in 2020 and the Spirit of the Pacific Award in 2019. In 2023, she was honored as an Outstanding Advocate for Children and Youth.

As a member of the Red Cross Youth Program Committee, she attends meetings, advises youth officers, and mentors directors from both public and private schools. She helps students run their clubs as independently as possible, offering guidance when needed and allowing room for growth through experience. Her support is hands-on and consistent, from hosting meetings in her office to preparing materials for events with enthusiasm and care.

"Ms. Reziel's passion is evident in everything she does. She brings positivity, leadership, and a tireless work ethic to every opportunity to support youth, whether through panel discussions or volunteer projects. She is a true LifeChanger, uplifting students and the entire school community with her compassion, vision, and service," said Devera.