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David J. Dutton
“By keeping alive our past, not only can we see the evolution of history, we can experience it first hand.”
- Program: 2008 Undergraduate Transfer Scholarship Recipient
- Resides: Bealeton, VA
- Hometown: Bealeton, VA
- Age: 22
- Community College: Lord Fairfax Community College
- Four-year College or University: University of Mary Washington
- Academic/Career Pursuits: Architecture, Historic Preservation, Museum Conservator
- Other Interests: Church / Religious Organization, Classics, Film / Photography, Honor Society, Leadership Development, Liberal Arts, Outdoor / Mountaineering / Camping, Religion, Student Government, Tutoring / Mentoring, Visual Arts, Volunteer Work
Biography
PROFILE: Growing up in Virginia, David often visited Jamestown and Williamsburg and imagined what it would have been like to live in Colonial times. His first hands-on historical preservation project was restoring a 1955 Toro professional lawn tractor. While the tractor was not of significant historic interest, the experience confirmed his desire to pursue a lifelong career in conservation. “I came to appreciate the hard effort that goes into preserving these antiques.”
After that first Toro, he has since worked on the restoration of a three-ton stationary steam engine and an old rivet machine. His next project will be assisting in restoring an early twentieth century reed organ.
INSPIRATION: While volunteering as a crew member for a tourist railroad’s Santa Train excursion for underprivileged children, he discovered how “the smallest action influences bigger actions in others.” Many of the kids had never ridden a train before, and David saw how easily their initial fears turned to joy with the encouragement of a smile, some attention, and praise.
ASPIRATION: David plans to work as a conservator for a museum, and to continue his passion for historical preservation. “I also hope to develop my artistic talents to design interpretive displays emphasizing the importance of antiquities.”
MAKING A DIFFERENCE: David founded an American Sign Language Society on his college campus, launching the new organization with a public screening of the PBS documentary, Through Deaf Eyes. He also serves as Vice President of the student governing association and devotes many hours to the Walkersville Southern Railroad, Piedmont Railroad Model Railroad Club, and Antique Equipment Preservation, Inc.
ACCOLADES: David received the Volunteer Service Award for contributing outstanding volunteer hours from the Walkersville Southern Railroad. He was selected for the First Virginia Team of the All-USA Academic Team and received the Student Showcase Award. As a member of Phi Theta Kappa, he received the number one regional and International Distinguished Member award. David has been on the President’s List four consecutive times.
INTERESTING FACT: David’s hearing impairment prevents him from hearing all but low frequencies. He uses that ability to play the cello.
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Richard Shin
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Mark Sandberg
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