LifeChanger of the Year Nominee Profile

Blair Wulfekuhl was nominated by her colleague, Chelsie Needham.

"When I first heard of LifeChanger of the Year, I immediately thought of my closest colleague, Blair," said Needham. "In the first few months of getting to know Blair, she reunited two foster children she cared for and adopted a student whose current caregiver could no longer support him."

At school, Mrs. Wulfekuhl teaches every single student through Guidance lessons. She focuses on emotional regulation, kindness, anti-bullying, coping strategies, etc.

"It's been an incredible experience to see students laugh and smile after a guidance lesson. It's been even more amazing to talk with struggling students and hear them tell me about the Mountain Breathing techniques (and others) Blair has taught them to address their distress," said Needham. "These students have learned how to regulate themselves when they have big emotions, and it's incredible to watch. When I see teachers implementing coping skills with students, I know we've succeeded! Guidance has become an even more important part of our school's curriculum post-pandemic. The pandemic has changed some of our children's ability to socialize and work as a team. Still, Blair's guidance lessons have focused on ways to be a collaborative and impactful part of our school's community."

A parent sought out Mrs. Wulfekuhl to tell her how impressed she has been with the new Guidance class lessons and how needed they are. Mrs. Wulfekuhl has provided a safe place for children to express themselves and feel heard, supported, and loved.

"Learning to deal with big emotions as a child is life-changing, and we have Blair to thank for that," said Needham.

Before becoming a school counselor, Mrs. Wulfekuhl worked in child welfare for 12 years in various roles, including as a Social Worker. She's additionally worked at one of the local hospitals in the child's behavioral health unit. Mrs. Wulfekuhl and her husband decided to become foster parents after she had a hysterectomy at 27. They've always wanted more children and, knowing how many foster children needed their help, decided to open their doors to 11 children, who were reunited with their families. Many children do not get reunited, but Mrs. Wulfekuhl and her husband made it a point to work tirelessly with the families to make reunification possible.

"My heart burst with empathy and love when I learned they were adopting a student at our school. Blair said his infectious smile sealed the deal," said Needham. "Two weeks after meeting him and deciding to adopt, he lived with them full-time. Blair has changed this young man's life forever. It is without a doubt that Blair is a LifeChanger and continues to make the lives of those around her better."