Dave brings something rare to venture: he has actually done it. Since 1994, he has served as Founder, CEO, CFO, and General Counsel for early-stage companies across the Research Triangle. In 2011, he co-founded The Startup Factory with Chris Heivly — at the time the most highly capitalized accelerator in the Southeast — deploying lean startup methodologies across 35 investments between 2012 and 2015. Today he is also Co-Founder of Belhaven Biopharma.

His academic career runs equally deep: more than two decades as Professor of the Practice in Entrepreneurship at UNC’s Kenan-Flagler Business School, and five years as Adjunct Professor of Law at UNC School of Law. When Dave walks into a meeting, he draws on founder experience, legal training, investment judgment, and decades of teaching — simultaneously.

From day one, Dave signals to Student Associates that they are contributors, not observers.

Associates describe the VC 101 Education Series and any post-pitch and post-mortem session with Dave as among the most practically valuable learning experiences of their time at Duke — sessions designed to close the gap between what students read in textbooks, or just never heard of, and what actually unfolds on a cap table or in a difficult founder conversation. Many say the insights and hands-on venture experience carry well beyond graduation.

With all the experience, Dave thrives being a mentor and paying it forward. Dave notices when someone’s work has improved, when someone has stepped up their game, or when a contribution deserves to be recognized — and he says so, often publicly. A spontaneous shoutout in a meeting, a word of genuine recognition at the right moment: these are small gestures that land with lasting weight. In a world where good work frequently goes unremarked, Dave makes a point of making people feel seen.

DCP operates as a membership network, which needs to be built, nurtured, and informed by portfolio company updates. Investor Members describe Dave as a connector and trusted partner that is thorough in his diligence, even-handed in his communication, and consistent in attention to detail. He can synthesize complex matters in a very simple and fast way.

Investors have shared that Dave’s authentic commitment to Duke’s mission has inspired them to engage more deeply and support the university more broadly over time. DCP Associates, investors, colleagues… don’t just stay grateful — they stay connected, knowing they can reach out to Dave anytime.