LifeChanger of the Year Nominee Profile

David Felten was nominated by Erica Lopez, the parent of a student.

Mr. David Felten, the principal at Reunion Elementary School, is the epitome of an exceptional leader and someone who does more for others than for himself. He is precisely that, selfless! On any given day, you can see him mowing the lawn at the school for the upcoming Fun Run or shoveling snow from the sidewalks so the students and staff can arrive safely. He visits the students and staff in their classrooms daily, in specials, and during recess. Every single day of every single year, no matter the weather, he greets parents and students in every car in the drop-off line and at pick-up! He loves his school and students.

"I am in awe of Mr. Felten and his dedication to Reunion Elementary, his staff, and his students," said Lopez. "He treats every student like they are his own child. Mr. Felten strives to create a culture and environment within the school that every student matters, every student is important, and every student can become who they want to be! He allows every student to Believe Big, Pursue Their Summits, and Leave Footprints for Others to Follow! He strives for excellence, even winning the Governor's Distinguished Improvement Award two years in a row!"

"He is top-notch, and I am grateful my children get to grow up and learn in a school that is so welcoming and helps them to build a foundation for the rest of their lives; to become great leaders in their own classrooms, in the community, and at home," said Lopez. "Reunion Elementary is giving my children the motivation and drive to excel in school, attend a trade school or college, and become productive members of society!"

"As a parent of two students who attend Reunion Elementary under the leadership of Mr. Felten, I can confidently send them to school every day. I know they will learn, be safe and respected, and feel the love and support of Mr. Felten and the entire staff! He will stand up and fight for not only my children, but all of the students, even if it goes against the majority! I often joke that I had a third child so that we could spend more time at Reunion Elementary School!"

"All of this doesn't even touch what Mr. Felten does on any given day for all of the children attending Reunion Elementary School," said Lopez. "I write this with tears in my eyes because I know how lucky we all are to know Mr. Felten and to have him as our children's principal in the most vital years of their lives. They will forever be better people because of Mr. Felten's dedication and leadership to them at Reunion Elementary School, and I am forever indebted to him!"