David makes things happen. He’s the guy you go to if you need help with something that requires creativity or collaboration.
A college educator, artist, graphic designer, and as an alumnus of Maryland Institute College of Art, he has over 36 years of experience in graphic design and advertising, including 17 years in art and design education. David taught at Savannah College of Art + Design and Ringling College of Art + Design.
Currently, as the Grand Central District Association Executive Director, he works with local community organizations and Main Street businesses providing design and creative services, and created the rainbow-colored Grand Central banners along Central Avenue, and the graphics for multiple events.
Having a talent for bringing people together, David was one of the driving forces behind the very successful Halloween on Central inaugural event this October, which drew over 50,000 people of all ages, races and orientations. With leadership from the Downtown Partnership, Car-Free St Pete and the EDGE District, changemakers were able to craft a plan for the city to shut down 22 blocks of Central Avenue to provide a car-free boulevard for walkers, bikers and skaters to enjoy local businesses, vendors and performers that were handing out candy and goodies to the trick or treaters.
Bringing people back to the roots of Grand Central and tapping into the DNA of the district is important to David. Diversity and inclusivity are hallmarks of the District, the birthplace of St Pete Pride. The Metro Welcome Center and a variety of events like Come OUT St. Pete and Halloween on Central create an inclusive atmosphere all year long, not just in June.
Additionally, the vibrant neighborhoods on either side of the Grand Central District are key to its success. “Where the Locals Go” is the district’s motto, for good reason. David has been able to tap into the personalities of the people and businesses, building on what they have now and looking forward to the future and visions of what can be.
Another collaboration with which David was involved was the Central Avenue planter beautification. Along with Palmetto Park and Historic Kenwood which surround GCD, they teamed up to replant all the large pots along the avenue, using a grant from the City. He has also helped with grants for Historic Kenwood Public Art and the banners that were created and are displayed along First Ave N.
There’s always a lot to do in Grand Central, thanks to David. He has served on the Historic Kenwood Neighborhood Association board, as have I. As a friend and colleague, he is someone that I truly admire and respect. David is very deserving of this honor; it will be one of many that he will receive in his lifetime.
To view the full list of Watermark’s Remarkable People of 2021, click here.
