LifeChanger of the Year Nominee Profile

Bailey Dann was nominated by her colleague, Sherice Gould.

Ms. Dann was born and raised in rural Idaho next to potato fields nestled in the Rocky Mountains. She is a Shoshone-Bannock tribal member and a first generation college graduate with a Bachelor's degree in anthropology and studio art from Grinnell College. Ms. Dann is currently in her third year teaching English and Shoshoni language at Chief Tahgee Elementary Academy in Fort Hall, Idaho. She has always been committed to creating positive change in the world, whether it's through teaching, making art, or developing projects benefiting underserved populations.

When she began teaching at Chief Tahgee Elementary Academy, she and her colleague, Jose Mendez, found an immense need for both a library and a clothing bank. Students lacked access to books depicting characters with diverse backgrounds and a variety of stories. Many students lacked proper protection from winter elements. After giving students winter clothing from their personal closets, Ms. Dann and Mr. Mendez realized they needed more resources.

They began collecting gently used and new clothing, including coats, new socks, and hats in 2018. Together, they reached out to their college alumni community, who responded with numerous boxes of clothing and books as well. They collected over 20 boxes of clothing to develop a school clothing bank and over 720 books for the library.

CTEA's current clothing bank serves over 90 students and their families. Many have expressed gratitude for providing winter clothing for their children. The library now spans a collection of more than 800 books. Both the library and clothing bank are a welcome addition to the food bank that Chief Tahgee Elementary operates for the community.