District 5690 - District Biographies

David A. Nygaard has been a Rotarian for 24 years during which time he has served as Rotary Club of Newton's President, Vice President, Director, Song Leader, Secretary and Historian. He is a multiple Paul Harris Fellow, a sustaining member and benefactor, a Bequest Society member and a Major Donor of The Rotary Foundation. All members of his family are Paul Harris Fellows.

He and his wife LaVerna (Bernie) have lived in Newton for the past 40 years. They have two daughters, Nichole and Natalie and two sons-in-law, Robert and Cody. Nichole and Robert have two sons, Royce and Brody, who are the pride and joy of their grandparents.

David is a retired banker, retired Navy Reservist, and a Disabled American Veteran. As a veteran, David served his country in the Cold War, Viet Nam, Korea, and in Desert Shield/Storm. He has been called to active duty seven times in his career and retired as a Force Master Chief. David graduated from Newton High School in 1966 and earned a Bachelor's (73) and Master's (74) Degree in Education from Wichita State University.

David has held leadership positions in many civic, religious, government, and social organizations, and since his retirement he has given freely of his time, talent, and energy to ensure Newton is a grand place to live and raise a family. In his spare time he delivers Meals on Wheels, volunteers at the Newton Wellness Center, volunteers and gives blood for the American Red Cross, serves on the Senior Patrol for the Harvey County Sheriff's Department, helps disabled veterans and senior citizens and he and his wife have started a foundation that funds five scholarships - two at Wichita State University, Bethel College, Newton High School, and Heartland Community School - Henderson, Nebraska. He is also a Wichita State Alumni Association Board Member.

David believes that if there is one organization that can bring peace to the world, Rotary International will be the one.