David is an expert in solving problems through communications. He’s spent the past two decades guiding people to tap into their creativity through orthodox and unorthodox approaches, using practices like the pedagogy of play to turn their ideas into action rather than letting them languish in brain purgatory.
He consults clients across a wide range of industries – comfortably jumping from nonprofits, businesses to foundations – through the lens of a coach, nonprofit leader, and a classic marketing expert. Through Momentum, he’s led communications strategies for organizations, such as SoCal CAN, CDE Foundation and the SELA Collaborative. He launched the state-wide campaign “Let’s Go to College California” to ensure more students were engaged in higher education during the height of COVID-19. He also developed a new brand, marketing, and outreach strategy for an innovative approach to ending homelessness called “Lease Up LA,” a Zillow-like platform to connect property owners to individuals seeking homes.
Prior to forming Momentum, he worked as a graphic designer and an art teacher in Los Angeles and Honduras. He’s led four organizations and launched multiple social enterprises often drawing local and national recognition for his work from council members, mayors and congress members. He’s also received recognition from the Annenberg Foundation, Los Angeles Social Venture Partners, New Leaders Council, and the Wells Fargo Executive Leadership program. To this day, his hands-on experience with artists, students and workers of all stripes influences his approach in giving clients advice.
David received a graphics art undergraduate degree from Point Loma Nazarene University and earned a master’s degree in public management from Cal State Los Angeles. Most recently, he became a certified LEGO Strategic Play methods facilitator. Learn more here!
He continues to teach courses on administration, nonprofit governance and leadership; fundraising and development; and thought leadership through CSULA’s Master of Public Administration program. Each of his graduate student classes receives a syllabus personalized according to their needs and desires as well as optional one-on-one mentorship. He’s also a featured guest lecturer and trainer at numerous universities and conferences. In the past, he sat on the boards of Make Change Awards, Blue Sky Center, YNPN LA, Latin American Indigenous Ministries, and more.
When he isn’t working, David enjoys exploring the many communities that make up the City of Angels with his family.