LifeChanger of the Year Nominee Profile

Brandon Locklear was nominated by his colleague, Ruth Herbert.

Mr. Locklear mentors many young people in the Lumbee community. As a counselor for his school and a member of the NHASA Tribe Services, he is focused on the demographics of his community and strives to insure that each student he works with has a positive step toward the future. Current statistics for the Lumbee community are bleak. By providing access to athletics, college scholarships, military enlistment, and livable wage job opportunities, Mr. Locklear works to combat the cycle of poverty that is abundant in Hoke County.

According to the US Census for 2017, there are currently 58,000 Lumbee tribe members, and 13.2% have less than a high school diploma. The unemployment rate is 9.9%, and 33.6% live in poverty. Through his dedication to his community, Mr. Locklear has developed ways to gain access to academic acceptance and funding, as well as job fairs for students. The ASVAB is given every 30 days during the school day, and he asks military recruiters to serve as both tutors and mentors for possible enlistees. Because of his efforts, the Class of 2019 received $27 million in academic scholarships, and 15% of the graduating class enlisted in the military. Multiple job fairs were provided for students who were looking to enter into the workforce after graduation. These job fairs ensured each child's needs were met, and positive steps were made toward self-sufficiency after school. Through his dedication to his tribe and hometown, Mr. Locklear has created a better atmosphere for students, teachers, parents, and the community of Raeford.