This week, the National Youth Leadership Council will honor Lori Fowler with this year’s Service-Learning Practitioner Leadership Award. The award is presented annually “to a teacher or community member who has created a living legacy through service-learning practice.”
“Her dedication to building sustainable, student-driven service-learning models has positioned AACPS as a national leader,” says AACPS Director of Workforce Development Joe Rose. “This award honors outstanding leaders who advance service-learning through innovation, advocacy, and mentorship. Her unwavering dedication continues to shape the future of service-learning at both local and national levels.”
As a 27-year veteran educator in AACPS, Fowler has solidified a legacy indeed. She designed and built a nationally recognized service-learning program that empowers students to take ownership of their learning while making a tangible impact on their communities. The effects of her thoughtful programming extend well beyond the state 75-hour graduation requirement, she ensures that service-learning is a meaningful, integrative process involving preparation, action, and reflection.
With a strong belief in the power of student voice, she founded the Student Service-Learning Leadership Team in 2020, fostering student leaders who actively shape district-wide initiatives. She also supports the ServeAACPS Portal, an innovative platform that connects students with service opportunities aligned with their interests while strengthening partnerships with the community.
Her influence extends statewide through her role on the Maryland Civic Education Leadership Team, where she mentors educators, facilitates professional development, and shares best practices.