DAVID LAVIN
Founder, Spark Impact

David is a visionary strategist and cultural catalyst with over 15 years of experience at the intersection of creativity and social impact. David specializes in guiding organizations to harness the transformative power of culture to drive meaningful, lasting change. His work bridges the vibrant energy of the creative industries with the strategic, results-oriented focus of the development, education, and public-policy fields.

David partners with leadership teams to develop purpose-driven strategies that align their missions with the cultural landscape, ensuring their efforts are impactful, relevant, and sustainable. With a unique ability to combine creative vision with strategic precision, David helps clients unlock the full potential of their cultural assets, transforming them into powerful tools for growth and social change.

A recognized expert in impact evaluation, David has designed and implemented measurement frameworks that enable organizations to assess the effectiveness of their cultural and social initiatives. His approach ensures that programs not only achieve their intended outcomes but also provide valuable insights for continuous improvement and long-term success.

Before founding Spark Impact, David held key roles in some of the world’s leading organizations, including Global Citizen, The Clinton Global Initiative, and The US-Brazil Joint Initiative on Urban Sustainability. His experience leading international initiatives to address complex challenges enriches his ability to craft culturally resonant strategies that drive impact across diverse contexts.

As an executive coach, David helps leaders refine their vision, navigate complex challenges, and foster personal growth and strategic alignment within teams. His approach empowers organizations to build stronger, more meaningful connections and drive measurable impact.

A sought-after advisor and speaker, David has taught Social Impact Strategy, Measurement, and Evaluation at Columbia University’s School of International and Public Affairs (SIPA), where he also earned a Master’s degree in International Affairs. He currently serves on the Kennedy Center Social Impact Advisory Board, contributing his expertise to one of the nation’s most prestigious cultural institutions. His work has spanned collaborations with top-tier organizations such as Lincoln Center, Carnegie Hall’s Weill Music Institute, and the Rockefeller Foundation, among many others.

David’s passion for cultural and social change is matched by his dedication to economic inclusion, justice, and education, inspiring organizations to lead with purpose and make a lasting impact.