“David has an ability to educate audiences in a most engaging and animated manner. He is a truly outstanding speaker with a clear message and voice that needs to be heard. My students were riveted and genuinely moved by his talk. I recommend him most highly as an orator who can truly connect with college audiences about issues that matter. He is a breath of fresh air and will not disappoint.”
Dr. Tracy Masterson
Associate Professor of Psychological Science
John Carroll University
***
“When you meet David and listen to him speak, you wouldn’t necessarily pick up on the adversity he’s overcome. Instead, you are transported to a state of mind where you can’t help but be inspired to push forward and have faith that everything happens for a reason. His light-hearted delivery has a heavy message. Dave has a gift of speaking positively about negative things…He has taught me several valuable life lessons.”
Nick Formica
Benedictine High School Director of Admissions
***
“The presentation was funny, informative, thought provoking, age appropriate, and full of love. It really doesn’t get any better than that …”
Mom attending student P.E.T.R.O. Power presentation
***
“…I had a preconceived idea that David may have trouble speaking, however he proceeded to give the best presentation I have witnessed thus far at Lake Erie College…”
C.A. (college student)
***
“David’s oral presentation was truly inspiring…I was surprised at the strength of the message he gave to us…David and his mother both exhibited such hard work and determination it made me feel as though I could achieve anything and what is better than a lesson like that?”
K.S. (college student)
***
“David’s presentation was moving, powerful and humbling. I truly recommend this to any school and/ or business to understand differences and embrace them. David is a true inspiration; he gives a glimpse into a child or young adult working through their differences and finding their gift.”
Tawnia Novak,
Director
Total Education Solutions Ohio
***
“I have often said that my greatest and most appreciated teachers are individuals living with Autism… Tonight was no exception. I had the opportunity to listen to an incredible mother/son team who authored a book I’m eager to read. Thanks for reminding me why I love what I do…and why I do it! Your inspirational story of trial and triumph touched my heart and soul.”
Colleen Shinn
Community Outreach
Autism Speaks
***
“I have had the pleasure of seeing David speak to several different audiences. In each situation, David captured the audience’s attention and had them laughing, crying, and wanting to learn more from him and his experiences. David is direct, funny, serious, and humble. His knowledge of Asperger’s and expertise in the area of living a “full life” with Asperger’s is beneficial and inspiring to any audience. He moves through his presentations efficiently with ease and confidence.
I arranged for David to speak to a group of teachers, Intervention Specialists, school psychologists, and tutors where David shared his personal experiences…One teacher said…“This was the best meeting I’ve ever been to!” I heard David speak to a class of 6th graders…One of my students came up to me afterwards with tears in her eyes and said, “I am so glad David taught us today about bullying. From now on, I’m going to be kind to every new student in our school no matter what!
David does not try to be anyone else but himself. He is accepting of himself and happy. He is a great example for others who are struggling with any kind of difficulty in their lives. His personal stories reach more than just one particular audience… what a blessing it is for audiences to see and hear what life is really like, from a person like David, who has experienced so much and has come so far living with Asperger’s.”
Debbie Mulhall,
McKeon Education Group
Teacher/Supervisor
***
“David’s TED talk is simply incredible. To go from a non-verbal 2-year-old to an articulate and persuasive young man is truly inspiring. It teaches us that nothing is impossible. I truly share in your pride in David and his amazing journey.”
Steven E. Nissen MD MACC
Former Chairman, Department of Cardiovascular Medicine
Cleveland Clinic Foundation
Professor of Medicine
Cleveland Clinic Lerner School of Medicine
at Case Western Reserve University
***
“I’ve had the privilege of hearing David speak a few times at John Carroll University, and I am always moved by his testimony. Not only is David a fantastic speaker, but his charisma, humor, and faith make him an outstanding individual as well. I admire the relationship he has with his mother, and their partnership is an example for all families to follow.”
Gina Talerico
John Carroll University ’21
***
“…his story inspired me to do better with my life. He does not let his Autism stop him in any way and he is set out to live a fulfilling successful life. When school is challenging I just want to give up and go back to bed, but David did not just give up with the dozens of struggles he faced…”
K.R. (college student)