David brings 15 years of experience in emotional growth and therapeutic education to Cherokee Creek. He "grew up" in the business, first working as a teacher, then team leader (primary counselor) and wilderness guide before honing his leadership skills as Director of CEDU Middle School and CEDU High School. David came to CCBS from Wilderness Quest in Monticello, Utah, where he was Executive Director of the highly respected and longest-running, wilderness therapy program in the United States. His collaborative approach to team leadership, and experience in administration, financial planning, program development, staff training and risk management are a tremendous asset to the school.
"My professional mission statement is to serve students and families through inspired leadership,” says David. “The opportunity to lead Cherokee Creek is an honor and privilege. I am excited to collaborate with the excellent staff and leadership, the committed parents, and most importantly the energetic, precious students of Cherokee Creek Boys School."
Thriving on all things outdoors, David especially enjoys climbing, biking, skiing and backpacking. He has been a certified mountain guide and taught all of these sports plus canoeing, rafting, caving, ropes courses and primitive living skills. He reports that he can make a fire with two sticks, a rock and a shoelace in under 60 seconds!
David and his wife, Janine, met while working as counselors at Mt. Bachelor Academy, a therapeutic boarding school in Oregon state.
They have been married for 13 years and, along with their three young boys Riley, Cole and Dylan, enjoy being back in the South, near parents and family.
“We are delighted David is leading our wonderful team,” says Beth Black, President of Cherokee Creek Boys School. “His positive, warm personality, coupled with a sense of play and fairness, create an environment of growth and discovery - the perfect fit for Cherokee Creek.“