David P. Terry grew up in a small Southern town where he was drawn to the river from an early age. 

He began his paddle sports career as a raft guide shortly after returning from an Iraq deployment with the U.S. Army. Raft guiding allowed him to explore much of the Western United states where he fueled his passion for connecting people with the natural beauty and wonders hidden amongst ancient river canyons. Over the years, he gravitated toward Experiential Education becoming an outdoor educator working with the National Outdoor Leadership School teaching Diversity and Inclusion curriculum. 

While attending Graduate School at Prescott College, he found an opportunity to blend his passion for the river with his graduate work exploring how white male educators can use their own Power and Privilege to create awareness for Social Justice. David has been the Operations Manager and a Co-Owner of Rocky Mountain Adventures since 2019. In his second year with RMA, he supported Diversify Whitewater’s initiatives during both of their highly successful events in 2020 where he was able to connect his business with his graduate work. David would like to serve on the DW board to continue improving the accessibility of paddle sports to BIPOC communities and developing alliances with those working for social justice and positive change.