LifeChanger of the Year Nominee Profile

Brenda Brown was nominated by her principal, Carmi Strom.

Ms. Brown has been the elementary school secretary at Webster for 39 years. She has dedicated her life to her school and community. Ms. Brown is more than her school’s secretary; she is a mom, grandma, great aunt, nurse, counselor, and a shoulder to cry on. Parents, grandparents, and current/former students rely on her calm and loving demeanor.

Ms. Brown is known as the school’s unofficial historian because she knows everyone who has ever been a student  at Webster.

"I cannot count the number of times I have watched Brenda welcome a new family to the school," Strom said. "She will remember them as students or recognize their parents, and now they are registering their grandchildren."

Ms. Brown is always positive and is a constant support system to all. She is willing to walk new families through the process of student enrollment and help students deal with tough family situations. 

"I always refer to Brenda as the boss of the school, even though I am joking," Strom said. "As my own mother would say 'the truth is often spoken in jest.' Brenda really is the one running the school. When faced with tough decisions, I always consult Brenda. Her knowledge and unwavering ethical standards lead her decisions, which I rely on."

In the school office, Ms. Brown provides a warm and nurturing atmosphere where students, parents and staff feel comfortable. Her demeanor reflects her positive, optimistic attitude about life. She relates exceptionally well to her peers throughout the district. Ms. Brown is honest and outgoing, and she exhibits a pleasant and friendly personality.

Her contributions as a staff member are noteworthy. She is actively involved in her school, where she sits on several committees. Her patience and good judgement with all students and staff have been great assets to the San Diego USD community.

"One of her greatest strengths is the positive attitude she maintains and her willingness to cooperate with the overall vision of our school and the entire district," Strom said. "She is very organized and precise in whatever tasks she is involved in, and she always demonstrates a high degree of professionalism when performing her duties."

Throughout her career in the district, Brenda has established a reputation as an exemplary educator. She has consistently displayed outstanding qualities of initiative, conscientiousness and professionalism.

"Brenda is truly a LifeChanger because she has changed more lives than we can count," Strom said.