David Zimmerman hasn't strayed too far from Church Farm School since graduating in 1988. He lives with his family in Chester Springs, works at QVC in West Chester and can be found in the Griffin Board Room every month leading Alumni Association meetings as its president since his swearing in last April. Born in northeast Philadelphia, David was raised by his mother, who he calls both "nurturer and disciplinarian." David's older brother Bobby was a student at Church Farm School, and invited him to visit the campus. David was a freshman at St. Joseph's Prep at the time, and says, "by breakfast, I knew Church Farm School was the place for me." "The school provided the right conditions for me to thrive and understand who I was as an individual," David says. "Along the way, the positive environment helped me discover some hidden talents." While David credits the house parents, teachers and administration for providing the necessary guidance, focus and space for self-discovery, he says the relationships among "brothers" are what he values the most. "The friendships we created and the experiences that we shared connect us eternally regardless of our distance and filled lives." David says his favorite Church Farm School "personal tradition" was bringing his classmates home for a weekend. "I was proud to introduce and blend my life with these unique and fun characters - Dozie, Chim and Gibby to name a few." The diverse backgrounds, economic status and interests of the student body helped grow David's worldview exponentially. "Prior to the farm, my exposure was limited. I rarely left the neighborhood. Over time and through some intense conversations, I learned how to suspend judgement and be curious first. These skills continue to serve me well." David graduated from Temple University and quickly landed a job with QVC, the world's leading electronic retailer. He is now at his 21st year with the company, leading their Global Customer Experience organization with team members in the US, UK, DE, FR, IT and JP. |
