LifeChanger of the Year Nominee Profile

David Walton was nominated by his colleague, Nicole Drazin.

Mr. Walton is one of the most highly regarded people at Atlas Preparatory. The reason for this is clear: he not only believes that whole-student care is the way to change lives, but he lives it.

Mr. Walton regularly moves between the elementary, middle, and high school of Atlas Preparatory, utilizing his training in psychology to support students with professional, but compassionate counseling techniques. He has been known to reach the toughest of students while developing rapport with the general student population in the hallways and cafeteria. He runs the golf club and has led multiple fly-fishing trips for students over the years. Mr. Walton has also helped coach the basketball team, started a military club, and participated in the video game and weightlifting clubs. He does all of this while leading a team of counselors, social workers, and SPED staff with excellence.  In his free time, Mr. Walton travels around the nation to provide education about suicide awareness and prevention techniques. He has also been known to reach out to graduates just to check in and see how they're doing as adults. 

"This year, in particular, has been devastating to counselors around the nation, and Atlas is no exception to that sentiment. Through record numbers of student crises, David has modeled gracious leadership and courage as he continues to show up, day after day. He continues to innovate, reach out, and be present for his team, our students, and our staff," said Drazin.