Panelist 1 - Danielle Natter, school counselor, Taylorsville High School (Utah) 

Danielle Natter has 19 years’ experience in education, beginning her career as a teacher and coach before transitioning to a counselor role. In 2013, Natter played a pivotal role in the pilot program for Utah’s first College Application Week. She subsequently created the program model for statewide implementation, promoting and training schools across Utah to implement College Application Week at all grade levels. 

Natter has a deep passion for guiding students to discover their own paths and plans, helping them access the information and resources necessary to achieve their goals. Her counseling work has extended beyond College Application Week, creating foundational planning programs for all students to intentionally schedule and work toward their future aspirations. 

Currently, Natter is recognized by the Utah School Counselor Association as Counselor of the Year and is committed to continually improving school counseling systems for all students in the state.

Panelist 2 - Ms. Paula Fontes M.Ed, college transition and alumni relations coordinator (Massachusetts)
Paula Fontes, a dedicated college transition and alumni relations coordinator, has been honored with the prestigious 2023 School of Excellence Award on behalf of New Heights Charter School of Brockton, Massachusetts. With more than 18 years of experience in educational counseling, Fontes excels in aiding students’ post-secondary journeys. Her career has focused on enhancing college and career readiness among high school and adult students, including those returning to education after significant time away.
As a first-generation college student herself, Fontes’ passion for college and career counseling was ignited by a program she participated in during high school. Inspired by her own experience, Fontes has dedicated her career to giving back to her community and supporting students with their college applications and journeys through higher education.

In her current role, Fontes assists both high school students and recent graduates from New Heights. She maintains strong relationships with former students who seek her guidance in navigating college or finally applying after leaving high school. Looking ahead, she plans to re-engage New Heights alumni to mentor current seniors, fostering a supportive network to guide students through their college application journeys.

Facilitator - Lisa King, director, ACT’s American College Application Campaign
Lisa King has worked for the American College Application Campaign since 2016 as senior communications specialist and was named director in 2020.  Prior to joining the Campaign, King served local, state, and national nonprofits and education institutions through her communications consultancy, Lisa King Consulting, LLC. Some of the clients include the Michigan College Access Network, the National College Attainment Network, Habitat for Humanity of Michigan, and Michigan AfterSchool Association. King holds a bachelor’s degree from Central Michigan University in integrative public relations and public affairs and a master’s degree in strategic communication from Michigan State University.