David Dietz, Social Responsibility Program Director at National Basketball Association (NBA). David is based in Chicago and responsible for developing and executing partnerships and initiatives for community impact on behalf of the NBA. In his role, David oversees a variety of league platforms and programs, including NBA Voices, the NBA’s programmatic effort to advance equity, equality, diversity, and inclusion. David also supports the NBA’s programs and partnerships focused on civic engagement, mentoring, and criminal justice reform; and serves as a liaison to government officials, international humanitarian organizations, and community engagement staff in the NBA’s global offices. He was instrumental in the planning and execution of the NBA’s weeklong community efforts during NBA All-Star 2020 in Chicago that focused on promoting physical and mental wellness, teaching the values and fundamentals of the game, creating spaces for open dialogue and mentorship, supporting those in need and empowering the city’s next generation of leaders. One such project, in partnership with YWCA Metropolitan Chicago, benefitted the Woodlawn-based Emmett Till Fine and Performing Arts Magnet School. The NBA helped refurbish the gymnasium and created both a Peace and Mindfulness Room and a Community Resource Room. Through David’s leadership, the NBA created a lasting impact for this school, more than 40 community-based organizations and tens of thousands of young people and families across Chicago.
Before joining the NBA, David was a Special Assistant in the White House Office of Public Engagement and Intergovernmental Affairs, where he served as President Obama’s liaison to athletes, teams, and leagues. Prior to the White House, David served on The President’s Hurricane Sandy Rebuilding Task Force and worked for the 2012 Obama-Biden campaign in Chicago. A native Hoosier and graduate of DePauw University, David got his professional start in early 2008 as a volunteer for then Senator Obama’s campaign in Iowa.