David Westphal
David Westphal
David Westphal was a professional in the theatre industry with an admirable passion for helping children.
He founded DLW Partners, LLC in early 2009 as the recession reached its height. Motivated to make a positive impact on North America through lean systems transformation, he set out to create this company.
Early Life and Education
David Westphal was born on September 5, 1950 in Vandalia, Illinois and grew up in Farina. Upon graduation from LaGrove High School he pursued a career in engineering.
After graduating, he relocated to Tulsa and worked at a filling station while saving money for college. Ultimately, he chose to study physics with a geophysics option at the University of Tulsa.
Throughout his college years, he spent a lot of time volunteering with Tulsa’s amateur radio and telescope-making groups. These experiences sparked an interest in astronomy that continues today.
He began his career at Sinclair Oil Research Laboratories in 1954, working in their exploration geology department. There he was responsible for instrument development and practical field work, while being able to collaborate with others interested in astronomical survey instruments.
Professional Career
David Westphal enjoyed an illustrious career in journalism. He held several key positions across multiple media, such as managing editor of the Des Moines Register and Washington bureau chief for McClatchy newspapers.
He also teaches journalism students at USC Annenberg and New York University, serving as executive in residence at the USC School of Journalism.
Westphal, born September 5, 1950 in Vandalia, Illinois and raised in Farina, Iowa, earned his Equity card by performing in a chorus for Little Me at Little Theatre on the Square in Sullivan, Illinois. Later that same year he relocated to New York and has since been part of numerous musicals throughout New York State.
Achievements and Honors
David Westphal was a long-time newspaper reporter and editor. He served as managing editor of The Des Moines Register and Washington bureau chief for McClatchy newspapers; furthermore, he taught graduate journalism students at USC.
He received the National Press Club’s Washington Correspondent Award and was twice a John Hancock award winner for business and financial reporting. Additionally, he served on the Associated Press Editorial Board.
Westphal made history in basketball by becoming the first player to reach 1,000 points in CIF Southern Section play. He led Aviation to an undefeated 10-0 Pioneer League championship and set new scoring records across three tournaments.
He served as Director of Athletics at Bethany Lutheran College in Mankato, Minnesota and led them to eight Upper Midwest Athletic Conference championships, nine UMAC tournament titles, and nine NCAA Tournament appearances.
Personal Life
David Westphal was born on September 5, 1950 in Vandalia, Illinois and had a happy childhood. Upon graduation from LaGrove High School in 1968, he was honored with the Sportsmanship Award during his senior year.
He then continued on to earn a degree in Theatre and Dance from Southern Illinois University in 1972, which culminated in him working as an actor/performer in numerous musicals both on tour and in New York City.
Westphal enjoyed traveling and finding the ideal location to capture his clients’ creative briefs. Recently, he completed a lifestyle brand campaign for Ford Bronco that was shot on-location in the desert.
Net Worth
David Westphal has an estimated net worth of $5 Million. He serves as President & CEO for Vertex Inc, owning around 267,660 shares in the company’s stock. In addition, he owns some Vanguard FTSE Developed Europe ex UK ETF shares; having traded this ETF 12 times since 2022 and most recently selling 1,509,373 units on March 14th 2023.
David Westphal has extensive experience working with Vertex Inc, having also served on the boards of several other companies. With a solid financial background and expertise in tax preparation, David holds memberships with both the International Association of Certified Public Accountants and has a bachelor’s degree from the University of Illinois. A lifelong philanthropist, his dedication to his family and community are undeniable.