The 1828 Project is one of our signature programs at IndyHub and each year it’s full of incredible leaders between the ages of 18 and 28. David is a part of 1828’s Class VI. We sent him some questions. He responded. Keep reading to learn more about David!
How do you spend your days?
I spend my days as the Communications Manager at the Indianapolis Parks Foundation. As communications manager for IPF, I am lucky to spend a lot of time outside. I’m typically running, riding my bike, or climbing on something I shouldn’t, but I promise I’m working. If I’m not outside, I am in front of my computer thinking up the right words or design for the next social media post, press release, or event promotion. After work, I often end up at EPIC, on the southwest side of Indy to do some climbing.
Where are you originally from?
I am from Evansville, Indiana. Aka Heavensville.
Where is your favorite place to go in Indy?
Just outside. Garfield Park is close to home and a perfect place to run, ride, or just relax in the Sunken Gardens. Eagle Creek Park is a great place to hike and get “lost.” Once you’re there, you feel like you have completely left the city. During the spring and summer, I like to enjoy a drink outdoors at Flat12, Metazoa, Rathskeller, etc.
What’s you transport of choice to get around the city?
Bike. It’s easily the best way to get around. Within downtown, a bike is faster than a car and parking is rarely an issue. If you don’t believe me, we can schedule a race to a watering hole of your choice. Loser buys!
If you could have coffee with anyone, living or not, who would it be and why? (Bonus points for which Indy coffee joint you’d take them to)
I think I’d have to take my Grandpa Fred to Calvin Fletchers. He died just before I was born, so I never had the chance to meet him, but I hear he had an interesting life. He went to grade school and high school with Mr. Rogers and Arnold Palmer and was apparently good enough friends with Arnold Palmer to wear one of his Green Jackets at a party after a Masters win. He was also almost the 2nd person in the world to have a mechanical heart, but received a donor heart at the last minute. I’m sure he has some untold stories I’d like to hear.
Thinking forward to the next 5 years in Indy, what are you most excited about for the future?
Indy is an awesome place. I know it, and you know it, and I’m excited to see who knows it 5 years from now. I’ve only lived in Indy for 5 years, but I have never felt like Indy wasn’t moving forward. Indy continues to grow and takes chances that result in progress. Transit, White River, Indy Urban Acres, and Tarkington Park are just a handful of the things I wish I could press fast forward on.
If you could only keep 5 possessions, what would they be and why?
iPhone – This is essentially access to everything. Music, friends and family, photos, communication of all types, and cat videos. You know, the essentials.
Bike – It’s an easy way to get around, healthy, and environmentally friendly.
Shirt, Pants, Shoes – I can’t go many public places without these three things.
If you won the lottery, what would you do with your winnings?
I think I have a pretty typical answer for the most part. I would pay off my student loans and car. Give my parents and sisters enough so they are set for life. Travel the world. Fund organizations that work to make the world a cleaner and healthier place to live.
Are you reading anything interesting right now, what book?
There are a few things on deck, but nothing right at this moment. The last book I read was Ishmael. I highly encourage you to read it. It challenges you think about human culture, and If you have an interest leaving the world a better place than you found it, you’re going to enjoy this book.
Do you have a hidden talent?
No specific talent. Just an overwhelming willingness to try new things, coupled with a high threshold for embarrassment.
