LifeChanger of the Year Nominee Profile

Chien Nee was nominated by Jennifer Gerwig, a colleague.

Mr. Nee is a passionate, dedicated, and data-driven role model. Throughout his career in urban school settings, Mr. Nee has dedicated his life's work to being a leader for his students, families, and the community. During his tenure, Mr. Nee has been instrumental in driving success, particularly by increasing English language proficiency and academic performance. However, his true gift lies in the relationships he cultivates within his school district. Mr. Nee builds spaces where trust and rapport are the foundation, allowing both students and staff to take risks, learn from mistakes, and grow together.

The true measure of a LifeChanger is the longevity of their impact. Twenty years into his career, it is not uncommon for a former student to approach Mr. Nee in the community to share a story of how he changed their trajectory. Mr. Nee didn't just teach them the curriculum; he instilled the confidence and drive they needed to succeed in life. Having transitioned from an ELD teacher, resident principal, and principal to a performance specialist, his influence has only expanded. Today, he supports school leaders in fine-tuning their practice through data-informed strategy, helping principals identify and bridge achievement gaps, leading growth-oriented sessions that inspire action, and constantly pushing his colleagues to show up as the best versions of themselves every day.

"I have worked alongside Chien throughout his career and have seen firsthand the consistency of his character. It is with great respect and admiration that I nominate Chien for the LifeChanger of the Year award. He does not just change schools; he changes lives," said Gerwig.