LifeChanger of the Year Nominee Profile

Laurie Gratz was nominated by her principal, Michael Murphy.

Ms. Gratz has worked as a Campus Monitor at Newark Memorial High School for 11 years. During this time, she has positively impacted many youth. She ensures safety by supporting everyone at school. She has mentored countless youth and provided them with employment when she previously owned a sandwich franchise. Ms. Gratz served as the district's Head JV Coach while developing a new softball program at the middle school.

Ms. Gratz serves as the President of Newark Days, a four-day community fair that showcases amusement rides, regional music, and ethnic food. Profits are generously used to support local schools and academic scholarships. She also served as President of the Newark Girls Softball League. Ms. Gratz also runs the kitchen for The League of Volunteers (LOV), a nonprofit. In this role, she oversees students and other volunteers as they prepare meals for families on Thanksgiving morning.