David J. Dutton

PROFILE: Some might say David­­ Dutton lives in the past and to an extent, that’s true. The young man from northern Virginia cherishes history and uses his innate “Mr. Fix-It” abilities to preserve antiques–everything from vintage lawnmowers, to 18^th and 19^th Century pipe organs, to train engines. If there’s an historic site within a day’s drive of his Bealton, VA home, chances are David’s been there. But there’s more to David than the past. His present is filled with community service responsibilities and helping others. Hearing impaired, David single-handedly began organizations devoted to American Sign Language at both his alma maters, Lord Fairfax Community College and at the University of Mary Washington. His passions are railroads and the early days of American industrial history–areas he hopes to focus upon in his graduate school studies. The young historian also loves music and can often be found unwinding while playing his cello. While David’s impairment prevents him from hearing all but low frequencies, his condition is almost an advantage for cellists. 

INSPIRATION: The mere fact that he was selected as a Jack Kent Cooke Scholar inspires David each day of his life. “As a deaf Scholar, the Foundation has allowed me to be a role model and a source of inspiration to many people, including those with disabilities,” David said, “… there is an overwhelming urge within me to help others who suffer from hardships, and to help them overcome their adversities by continuing to inspire them.”

ASPIRATION: David can fix just about anything, but while restoring antiques, he is overcome with curiosity of how the artifact was constructed in the first place. His ultimate goal is to preserve Americana wherever he finds it, and wherever it is in danger of being destroyed.

MAKING A DIFFERENCE: David spent nearly his entire academic career at University of Mary Washington, lobbying, pleading, networking, researching and doing whatever else it took to finally get American Sign Language accepted as a fulfillment of the university’s general education second language requirement. Accustomed to preserving history, David wrote a history-making proposal for the program. For over a decade, similar efforts had been rejected by the school’s administration. 

ACCOLADES: David was selected first string on the Virginia delegation to the All-USA Academic Team, and was honored by Phi Theta Kappa as an International and Regional Distinguished Member. In addition, David was named the Outstanding Graduate of the Class of 2008 at Lord Fairfax Community College.

INTERESTING FACT: David is a certified locomotive engineer.