David is a noted authority on the challenges of managing a diverse work force, mentoring, minority executive development, career management, and leadership.  His research has centered on one overarching question: How do social identity and demographic diversity affect the development and effectiveness of individuals and groups in organizations?

His recent book, Breaking Through: The Making of Minority Executives in Corporate America, co-authored with John J. Gabarro, was the recipient of the 2001 Academy of Management's George R. Terry Outstanding Book Award.  Breaking Through closely examines diversity management and has been hailed as "A massive primer for professionals seeking to understand success and employers who wish to foster diversity in their upper ranks."