LifeChanger of the Year Nominee Profile

Jana Harlow was nominated by her colleague, Melanie Herron.

"When a LifeChanger comes to mind, there is no other name than Jana Harlow. Her kindness and compassion for children is unlike anything that I have ever experienced," said Herron. "Her commitment to children is overwhelmingly gracious. She spends a lot of time away from her own children to serve the children that she loves on in Crane. I have worked with Jana at two different schools, but the love she shows children on a daily basis remains the same. She is the most structured teacher that I have ever seen."

Mrs. Harlow gives children the opportunity to choose for themselves, but guides them gently when the choice they have pursued may not be the best option for them. She lets them learn through their mistakes, but assures them that they will always have someone to love them. Her serving heart does not stop in the classroom; she has excellent rapport within the Crane community and nearby Midland and Odessa communities. She lives in Odessa and commutes back and forth to serve students in Crane.

Mrs. Harlow's background in ministry shines through when working with children. She is involved in several committees. She still serves in the children’s ministry in her church, volunteers for CASA, and spends time on the health committee at the school. In her spare time, she coaches volleyball, basketball, and tennis at the high school and junior high school levels. Mrs. Harlow sacrifices so much to spend time making people better.

"Many can tell you that Mrs. Harlow makes everyone better. Her ability to push people to be their best is incredible," said Herron. "Her selfless perseverance to shine light in a dark world is one of her greatest gifts that she shares with family, friends, colleagues, and children. She shows grace when grace is needed, structure when it might be tough, and love. She is a diligent LifeChanger."