DAVID CALLAHAN has spoken at over 150 universities, philanthropy associations, civic groups and bookstores across the United States. David's speaking has included keynote addresses to large audiences, debates, panel discussions, and serving as a moderator and interviewer. David has also presented online in webinars and virtual conferences. 

David is a frequent speaker on philanthropy and his latest book, The Givers: Wealth, Power, and Philanthropy in a New Gilded Age. His topics include: the new philanthropy landscape; emerging donors and how they think; donor strategies for impact; the challenges facing legacy and family foundations; and the role of philanthropy in U.S. democracy. In addition, David still occasionally speaks on issues of public policy, and ethics and moral values, including on his book The Cheating Culture.

Host Comments

"David, I can’t thank you enough for joining us last week. Your session was absolutely THE HIT of the conference—everybody raved about it. I thought it was a great conversation."

CASE Corporate and Foundation Relations

"Thank you for serving as our keynote speaker. Your presentation was thoughtful, compelling and consistent with everything I enjoyed about your book, The Givers as well as your writings for Inside Philanthropy. We’ve been swamped with complimentary notes about the evening."

Liberty Mutual Foundation

“David Callahan came and spoke to a packed room at Philanthropy New York, it was one of the most highly attended programs of the year. Many of our members disagree with some of the ideas he presents in The Givers, but it was a robust conversation and we received a lot of member feedback that it was an immensely stimulating and thought-provoking.”

Philanthropy New York

"Here is what some of our guests had to say about David's presentation: 'Fascinating take on philanthropy.' 'Excellent. Excellent. Excellent.' 'Loved the format!'"

Association of Fundraising Professionals, Silicon Valley

"The Corporation invited David Callahan to participate on a panel titled 'A New Landscape of Giving: Power, Policy, and Philanthropy' with the goal of providing a range of viewpoints. David’s participation added immeasurably to a provocative conversation. Drawing from his encyclopedic knowledge of philanthropy, he was able to offer thoughtful observations and seldom-heard insights."

Carnegie Corporation of New York

“We had rave reviews. The journalists rated David’s talk the best of the week—and he was in good company with some first class speakers, thinkers, two Pulitzer prize winners and one Nobel laureate.”

International Longevity Center

“Superb. The best session we have had this year. David was a masterful communicator of important findings and conclusions. Moreover, his capacity for engaging in real dialogue is extraordinary.”

Columbia University

“A wonderful keynote address. He was the best speaker we’ve had yet—polished, professional and everything I hoped for in a speaker.”

Better Business Bureau, Western Washington

“David interspersed humor with great facts. His enthusiasm and passion really came through. It was a great topic and great discussion. I hope to have him back again.”

Nichols College

“A splendid talk. His views on a topic so critical to civic engagement provided wonderful stimulus for our participants and set the stage for a lively, reasoned and civil discussion.”

Margaret Chase Smith Library

“Terrific speech. We’re really pleased. All of our attendees liked him and the message was great... He did a great job speaking.”

Caveon Test Security

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If you're interested in having David Callahan speak to your university, organization, or company, drop us a few lines saying what you have in mind, and we'll get right back to you.