LifeChanger of the Year Nominee Profile

Rachel Andress was nominated by her colleague, Jenice Velez. 

Mrs. Andress is a transformational leader whose impact extends far beyond the walls of William H. Owen Elementary School. She has created a school culture built on high expectations, meaningful relationships, and the belief that every child can succeed. Through initiatives such as PBIS, Principal Patrol, family engagement events, and community partnerships, she has fostered a positive, nurturing atmosphere where students, staff, and families feel valued. Her vision is to build relationships that engage, inspire, and empower students and staff so they have the confidence to pursue and lead in any future they dream.

Mrs. Andress has an exceptional record of professional excellence. Since she was appointed principal, William H. Owen Elementary School has emerged from North Carolina's low-performing designation and has successfully maintained that status through consecutive years of academic growth. In addition to improving student achievement, she has secured thousands of dollars in grants to expand literacy, STEM, and attendance initiatives, as well as student enrichment opportunities. Her ability to improve outcomes while building a positive school culture is a testament to her outstanding leadership.

What makes Mrs. Andress truly deserving of this recognition is the way she invests in people.

"When she hired me, I was preparing to move to Florida without my family by my side, as my son needed to complete his school year and my family would join me later. She saw potential in me before I saw it in myself. She modeled high expectations while providing the coaching, encouragement, and support I needed to fulfill my responsibilities successfully. More importantly, she didn't just make me part of a staff; she made me part of a family. Her leadership gave me the confidence to grow professionally and personally during one of the biggest transitions of my life," said Velez. 

Mrs. Andress leads with integrity, compassion, and professionalism. She empowers others to become leaders, celebrates successes, and always puts students first. Her ability to inspire excellence while creating a culture of belonging has transformed countless lives. She is not only an exceptional principal, but a mentor, advocate, and role model who exemplifies the very definition of a LifeChanger.