Story #46: David Dance, Director of Programs and Community Champion

David Dance ’74 is a distinguished PBHA alum and former Director of Programs (DoP). As a Harvard student, David was a key advocate for Black-centered media, organizing a screening on apartheid and participating in the impactful Mass Hall occupation, which demanded the university's divestment from the Gulf Oil Company.

Continuing his commitment to social justice, David worked with PBHA’s Columbia Point program to address community needs and organized boycotts for better access to groceries. After graduation, he became involved in anti-violence initiatives before returning to PBHA as DoP in 2002 and retiring in 2017. As DoP, David prioritized:

  1. Building strong relationships between PBHA student volunteers and the communities they served. He emphasized the importance of understanding community needs and fostering meaningful connections.

  2. Developing and expanding PBHA’s programs, ensuring they addressed social justice issues and provided vital services to underserved communities.

  3. Mentoring student leaders, guiding them in their own advocacy efforts and helping them cultivate their leadership skills.

His dedication has left a lasting impact on our community, inspiring future generations.

For more details, check out the original article linked here.

David Dance (left) and Kerry McGowan (right).

Kerry and David worked alongside each other as Director of Programs.

Photo from 2006.

David Dance (left) and Bob Hurlbut (right).

Bob was recognized as PBHA’s 2016 “Outstanding Supporter”.

Photo from 2016 PBHA Alumni Weekend.

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Story #47: Louise Wills, Senior Development Coordinator and Friend to All

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Stories from: Robert Coles “Call of Service” Award Recipients & Lecturers