LifeChanger of the Year Nominee Profile

Margaret Harbin was nominated by her principal, Rolando Bailey.

Ms. Harbin has served at Evans High School for the past seven years because she is passionate about making a difference in the lives of students and her community. She ensures that teachers and staff have everything they need to provide the best for students.

"Initially Margo started as our school’s registrar and moved into the school secretary role six years ago," Bailey said. "This puts her into a position to interact and tie all stakeholders into the success of our school."

Ms. Harbin takes her position seriously and is more than just the principal's right hand. She takes students under her wing who are struggling, stepping in to serve as a mentor on campus. She tied her love for athletics and adopted two football players who needed additional guidance and support on campus. One student in particular was battling a tumultuous home situation, moving from place to place. Ms. Harbin made sure they not only made it all the way through their senior year to graduation, but she helped bridge the gaps to help them get into college on scholarships. She attends their college football games and even brought their parents up to visit, since they were unable to afford traveling back and forth to school.

Students and adults see Ms. Harbin as a go-to person on campus. She always seems to have what you need, when you need it. She is often referred to as “Mama Harbin” and looks out for everyone as if they were family. Because of her role, Ms. Harbin happened to be aware of one teacher who was having a hard time outside of school financially. She stepped in to get the teacher’s son school supplies. She is always filling the gaps for everyone, inside and outside of school.

"Amongst our classified staff, she helps to provide cross training for staff so they may grow in various departments on campus," Bailey said. "She never feels 'above' any job, and instead, looks at something that needs to be done as an opportunity to take a burden off someone else and help get the task done."

On any given football Friday, Ms. Harbin volunteers at the ticket booth. On a Saturday, you will likely see her at school getting a few more things done on behalf of the school.

"Ms. Harbin is not deterred by the stigma of a crime ridden community that often causes adults to steer away from our school," Bailey said. "She is determined to be an integral part of the change. She is a Lifechanger!"