As a trustee of Sacramento Splash, David brings a values-driven perspective shaped by lived experience, professional leadership, and a deep belief in protecting land for future generations. He emphasizes the importance of environmental education that enables young people to build a genuine connection to open spaces, agriculture, and the natural world, rather than learning about them from a distance.
David’s commitment to Splash is rooted in his belief that land without a voice still deserves advocacy. He is particularly focused on supporting efforts that help public policymakers understand what is lost when agricultural land or wildlife habitat is annexed or removed from public use. Through Splash, he sees an opportunity to ensure that environmental education remains accessible and grounded in real-world experience.
That perspective began early in his life. Raised in Orangevale, California, David grew up on his family’s small ranch, surrounded by horses, cows, and open land. Living in the same home for nearly 18 years, he developed a strong connection to nature through everyday experiences, including fishing in Linda Creek, riding horses with his sisters, and spending time outdoors with neighborhood friends. His involvement in 4-H and later Future Farmers of America (FFA) further strengthened that connection, and he went on to serve as FFA President during his senior year of high school.
David later earned a Bachelor of Science in Animal Science from UC Davis. While he initially considered becoming a large-animal veterinarian, his path ultimately led to entrepreneurship. He founded and owned a successful biotechnology company in Davis, which he sold in 2022. He remains active in the biotechnology field and launched a new company in 2024 focused on innovative drug delivery approaches, including applications for cancer treatment and gene therapy. He also dedicates time to working with charities that support disadvantaged children, reflecting his ongoing commitment to access and opportunity.
Now living in Carmichael, David remains closely connected to the outdoors, spending time on the American River Bike Trail and kayaking the river. He believes that protecting open space and promoting sustainability are essential responsibilities, particularly to ensure future generations can experience the outdoors in the same meaningful ways that shaped his own childhood.
Through his role as a trustee, David supports Sacramento Splash’s mission to educate, protect, and inspire, helping strengthen the organization’s ability to connect young people with the land, the environment, and a sense of stewardship that extends far beyond the classroom.