David has been with the French Broad River Academy team since 2010. David is teaching 6th and 7th grade Spanish, music, and P.E., as well as serving in the role of Outdoor Programs Director.

David graduated from Appalachian State University in 2008 with a degree in Recreation Management. From there he worked in Costa Rica and Ecuador as a canoe instructor and safety kayaker for a total of twelve months. David has guided a raft on a 25-day Grand Canyon trip as well as worked on the Kern River in California raft guiding and instructing kayak lessons

David spent multiple summers in South America furthering his Spanish proficiency and immersing himself in Latin American culture.  This included a kayaking trip down the two deepest canyons in the world. 

David worked at Camp Mondamin for six summers, with job titles including several summers as head of the Mondamin paddling program.  David is certified as a Level 4 Kayak Instructor through the American Canoe Association. He is a four-time Wilderness First responder through the SOLO and a four time lifeguard through the Red Cross.  David also has a Swiftwater Rescue certification through the American Canoe Association.

David has been raising his daughter Olive to become bilingual by only speaking Spanish to her. 

Spanish, whitewater paddling, and the opportunity to teach young people  have been important throughout David’s life, and he is excited to practice all of these skills at French Broad River Academy.