BLACKSBURG– Dusty Spence, the ISS coordinator at Blacksburg High School, has been selected as a 2025-26 National Life Group LifeChanger Award Winner, earning $3,000 to be shared with her school.
National Life Group’s LifeChanger of the Year recognizes and rewards the very best K-12 educators and school district employees across the United States who are making a difference in the lives of students by exemplifying excellence, positive influence, and leadership.
Spence was one of ten LifeChanger Award Winners selected from more than 750 nominated teachers, administrators, and school employees representing all 50 states and the District of Columbia.
“Dusty exemplifies what it means to be a LifeChanger and a servant-leader,” said Mehran Assadi, Chairman, CEO, and President of National Life Group. “We are inspired by her mentorship, resilience, and lifelong dedication to student success.”
Throughout her career, Spence has taught every grade level and served as a trusted mentor to countless students, parents, and aspiring educators. She is widely celebrated for her compassion, unwavering dedication, and ability to inspire confidence in those around her. She has earned a reputation as the kind of teacher students remember for a lifetime.
“‘Not my job’ is simply not in her vocabulary,” said a colleague. “Whether it’s attending after-school activities, visiting students’ homes, or stepping in to help fellow educators, Dusty leads with heart, humility, and tireless commitment.”
That commitment is echoed by former students and families who credit Spence with profoundly shaping their lives.
“I wouldn’t have graduated college without her,” said one former student. “It was her mentoring, tutoring, and constant support that got me through. She stepped in as a ‘mom’ when I lived far from home, and the life lessons she taught me will stay with me forever. She was my LifeChanger, and I will always love her for that.”
“If I could, I would hire her to teach my children all the way through college. She’s that amazing,” said Seingi Bennett, a parent whose four children have all been taught by Spence. “She’s not only a remarkable teacher but also a close friend and confidant. She offers honest, loving advice and is someone I admire deeply as both a parent and a person.”
Even while facing her own health struggles, including a battle with blood cancer, Spence continued to give her all to the school community. She has led before- and after-school programming, facilitated summer learning opportunities, and ensured her students remained active, engaged, and connected to service in the community. Her classroom is a place where learning is joyful and purposeful, and where every student feels seen, valued, and empowered.
Since 2011, LifeChanger of the Year has recognized and rewarded more than 8,500 K-12 teachers, administrators, and school employees in 2,300+ school districts. The program has awarded more than $800,000 in cash prizes to winners and their schools for making a significant difference in the lives of students by exemplifying excellence, positive influence, and leadership.
Winners are chosen by a selection committee comprised of former winners and education professionals. Nominees must be K-12 teachers or school district employees. To be considered for an award, nominees must: Make a positive impact on the lives of students, Enhance their school or district’s atmosphere, culture, and pride, Demonstrate exemplary leadership at the school and/or district level, possess a proven record of professional excellence, show commitment to building a nurturing environment that supports learning and adhere to the highest moral and ethical standards.
National Life Group
