David S. Bell
Senior Design Partner
Personal Bio
Providing process consulting services across North America, David is a Senior Design Partner with Design Group InternationalTM . His expertise includes stewardship education, leadership development, organizational visioning, and planned giving. He is a forerunner in the discipline of spiritual giving. He creates hope by providing practical design and motivational seminars for faith-based organizations. He empowers leaders to discover their vital role in building communities of faith to embody a generous culture.
As an avid writer and leading-edge speaker, he addresses the often-overlooked spiritual discipline of generosity, the debilitating impact of hyperconsumerism on giving, and the positive cycle of abundance-focused communities. The growing demand for his intuitive, strategic vision and passionate leadership is significant. One of David’s recognized strengths is his personal understanding of organizations from various perspectives. He gained experience as a pastor, a development director, and a regional and national church executive.
David has a keen understanding of the current economic and consumer trends impacting individual’s charitable giving. His dynamic presentations invite participants to learn from one another by engaging in stimulating peer learning. His comprehensive consultation is customized to meet the specific needs of a faith-based community.
In addition to serving as a partner and consultant with Design Group InternationalTM, David currently serves as President and Executive Director with The United Methodist Foundation of Michigan. He is the past chairperson of the Board of Directors of the Ecumenical Stewardship Center. He is an active member of the Association of Fundraising Professionals, Christian Leadership Alliance, Partnership for Philanthropic Planning, and the National Association of Church Business Administrators. He is a trustee of United Theological Seminary and a member of the Board of Directors of Lakeside Chautauqua.
David is a magna cum laude graduate of Drew Theological School, holds a Bachelor of Arts degree in Religious Studies and Secondary Education from The College of Wooster and recently received a Post-Graduate Certificate in Executive Leadership from the Weatherhead School of Management at Case Western Reserve University.