LifeChanger of the Year Nominee Profile

Terri Adkins was nominated by her colleague, Kara Fitzgerald.

Mrs. Adkins is far more than an educational assistant; she is the heart of the Comprehensive Special Education classroom. Every day, she brings unwavering dedication, compassion, and skill to some of the most challenging, yet rewarding work in the field of education. She has a natural gift for connecting with students who are nonverbal, autistic, or profoundly impacted by disabilities, meeting each child exactly where they are and helping them reach goals that others might not think possible. Her calm presence and tireless patience transform our classroom into a place where students feel safe, supported, and celebrated. She understands that progress often comes in small steps, and she celebrates each one as if it were a giant leap. Whether it's helping a child find their voice through AAC (augmentive and alternative communication), supporting sensory and behavioral needs with dignity and care, or stepping in seamlessly to provide instructional support, she ensures that every student is given the chance to succeed.

Beyond her work with students, Mrs. Adkins is an indispensable teammate. She anticipates needs before they arise, brings creative solutions to daily challenges, and models what it means to lead with empathy. Families often remark on the joy and consistency she brings to their child's school experience, and staff rely on her reliability, kindness, and professionalism.

"In short, Terri Adkins changes lives every day. She changes the lives of students by helping them achieve skills that open doors to independence. She changes the lives of families by providing reassurance that their children are cared for with love and respect. And she changes the lives of colleagues by lifting the entire classroom team with her steady support and positivity. For all these reasons, Terri Adkins embodies what it means to be a Life Changer of the Year," said Fitzgerald.