LifeChanger of the Year Nominee Profile

Patti Nunnally was nominated by a member of the community.

"If I had to choose one phrase to describe Mrs. Nunnally, it would be 'growing greatness.' Everything she does is about growing greatness for herself, her students, her school, and our community," said the nominator.

"Mrs. Nunnally is always working to improve her teaching to provide her students with the best possible education. She continues to further her education and seeks opportunities to broaden her skills. For example, Mrs. Nunnally is one of a few South Carolina teachers to complete the South Carolina financial literacy master teacher program. She is teaching personal finance to her students and sharing her lessons and knowledge with other educators around the state so they can teach important personal finance skills to their students, as well," said the nominator.

"Mrs. Nunnally looks at her students and sees potential. She inspires her students to want to work hard. She grows greatness in her students by having high expectations and providing the nurturing and support students need to meet or exceed those expectations. Mrs. Nunnally works daily to prepare her students to go out into the community, be their best selves, and make great contributions. She had led and promoted volunteer opportunities, like serving at a soup kitchen, for her students to gain valuable life skills and show them the value of giving back and being a part of something larger than themselves. Providing a positive, challenging environment has changed the lives of countless students. When a student comes into her room failing and leaves on the honor roll, that's life-changing. When a student comes in planning to drop out and leaves with a college scholarship, that's life-changing, and when a child who can't read learns to read, that's life-changing. These are just a few examples of Mrs. Nunnally's impact on her students. Saying she makes a difference is an understatement," said the nominator.

"Mrs. Nunnally is not only an exemplary teacher of students; she is a role model and a teacher leader in her building, district, and state. Mrs. Nunnally serves as a district mentor for new teachers. She has led numerous building and district-level professional development sessions for her peers," said the nominator.

"Mrs. Nunnally has been named her school's teacher of the year twice in the last five years. She is also a Florence 1 School honor roll teacher this school year. Mrs. Nunnally is the recipient of the National University Inspirational Teacher for South Carolina and was named an Outstanding Special Education teacher by the National Association of Special Education Teachers last year," said the nominator.

"Mrs. Nunnally is committed to growing greatness every day. She makes a difference in the lives of her students, fellow educators, and the community. Mrs. Nunnally is a true asset to Florence 1 Schools," said the nominator.