Arts for LA is thrilled to announce our Keynote Speaker for the 2013 LA Convergence is the Reverend Dr. Ron David. 

“Telling and listening to stories is how we make our lives coherent and meaningful. And the meaning we make of our lived experiences determines our physical and psychological well-being.”

The Rev. Dr. Ronald David, or Ron, as he prefers to be called, captures the spirit of "Convergence" through his work as a pediatric neonatologist, Episcopal priest, chaplain, and public servant.  

In addition to his leadership as chaplain at Good Samaritan Medical Center, he carries a distinguished public sector career that includes positions as deputy and acting secretary of health for Pennsylvania and chief medical officer in the District of Columbia.  He also serves the civic and nonprofit sectors through his role as adjunct faculty in the Harvard Executive Education Program in the John F. Kennedy School of Government.

Ron considers himself a" story-listener" instead of storyteller.  His work in spirituality and medicine relies on his ability to give people a platform, a purpose, and an opportunity to tell their story in their own words.  

As leaders in arts, culture, and arts education, we each know the essential value of storytelling in fostering cross-community dialogue, increasing public safety and civil discourse, and capturing the lived experiences, both unique and shared, of everyone in Los Angeles.  Ron's singular approach to bridging his worlds will weave together the LA Convergence's various dialogues and leave you feeling inspired and renewed.

The LA Convergence will be held October 29 at Skirball Cultural Center and is designed for executive and emerging leadership in LA County's cultural sector.  Registration is free for Arts for LA Member Organizations.  To become a member, redeem your free registrations, or view full event details, please visit our website for more information.  Only 40 seats remain for what promises to be a provocative, collaborative, and informative day.