APPA Library

"New Board Chair, New Structure, New Processes: Dave Irvin Is Prepared for APPA’s New Day"
Author: Ruth E. Thaler-Carter
Published In: Facilities Manager
Date: September/October 2021

As International APPA stretches its systems, techniques, and programming in new ways following a major governance restructuring, Dave Irvin, associate vice president for facilities at Florida State University (FSU), is the first APPA volunteer leader to serve as Chair of the Board of Directors under the association’s visionary strategic framework, Preparing for Every Future. Irvin’s path to facilities management and APPA was a little different from that followed by many of his colleagues. “Facilities management is not what you usually would say when asked what you want to do with your life,” he says. “I was in private (architecture) practice when I was first out of school, but I realized I would be a better designer if I knew more about how people use buildings. A friend recommended me for a job at Emporia State University, and I found what I wanted to do with my professional life.” Irvin brings a commitment to both professional development and teamwork to his new role as APPA’s chief volunteer leader. He is someone who recognizes the value of his staff and colleagues—and of leading APPA’s new governance transition. “As an individual, I’ve been incredibly blessed with talent everywhere I’ve worked,” he says. “I’m the one-star athlete who’s surrounded by the five-stars who can bring it all together. Whether you’re thinking of your campus or your APPA membership, avail yourself of the talent around you and you’ll succeed.” Irvin is a great example of his own philosophy.

Share this page. You can e-mail this description and a link to this page to any valid e-mail address.

Return to Search Page