LifeChanger of the Year Nominee Profile

Maggie Cowan was nominated by her principal, Dora Fuqua.

Every school has someone whose influence reaches far beyond the walls of a classroom. At Canton Elementary, that person is Mrs. Cowan.

"If I had to describe Maggie in three words, they would be connects, cares, and empowers. She has an extraordinary gift for making every student feel seen, valued, and capable of success," said Fuqua.

Her classroom is more than a place of learning. It is a place where students feel safe taking risks, asking questions, solving problems, and discovering their potential. Through engaging, hands-on lessons and purposeful team-building activities, Mrs. Cowan creates an environment where learning is meaningful, challenging, and fun.

What truly sets her apart is her ability to build authentic relationships with her students. She takes the time to know each child individually—their interests, strengths, challenges, and dreams—and uses that knowledge to create lessons that inspire and motivate them. She encourages students to stretch beyond what they believe they can accomplish, whether they are mastering difficult math concepts, becoming confident readers, or learning the importance of kindness, responsibility, and good citizenship. Her students leave her classroom with stronger academic skills and greater confidence in themselves.

Her impact extends well beyond her classroom through her role as our part-time elementary counselor. She is a trusted source of comfort and stability for students experiencing difficult circumstances. Whether a child needs a quiet place to regain control of their emotions, a caring adult to listen without judgment, or encouragement during a challenging season of life, she is always there. Her classroom has become a haven, and her compassionate guidance has helped many students overcome obstacles, build resilience, and return to learning with renewed confidence and hope.

Her dedication does not end with students. Mrs. Cowan is the kind of educator every school hopes to have on its team. She willingly volunteers for school-wide events, mentors colleagues, and steps in wherever help is needed without ever seeking recognition. Her positive attitude is contagious, her leadership is respected, and her encouragement inspires those around her to be their very best. She leads through service, humility, and unwavering commitment to our school community. 

"LifeChanger of the Year recognizes educators who make a lasting difference in the lives of others. Mrs. Maggie Cowan exemplifies that mission every single day. She changes lives through her compassion, her leadership, and her belief that every child deserves to be known, loved, challenged, and empowered to succeed. Our students are stronger because of her, our staff is better because of her, and our school is a more caring, supportive, and successful place because she chooses to serve here," said Fuqua.