David Baulch '76

Along with many fun memories of his five years at Harding—including the 8th grade trip to Dauphin Island—David Baulch ’76 also recalls how, in fifth grade, he had to be out of school for several months. The Harding community’s response was something of a life lesson. “They found a tutor for me so I stayed up with the class,” he says. “There was constant communication.” As an adult he realizes what a profound impact Harding’s caring community had on him. “When I know someone is not doing well, I tend to check on them more often,” he says. “That’s what the school showed to me when I was there, and even to this day I see it happening. The school is always reaching out to those in need.”

David, who went on to attend Sewanee Academy (now St. Andrew’s-Sewanee School) and then to earn a BA in banking and BS in business management at Western Kentucky University, has made his career in the recreation industry. The vice president/secretary at the Nashville-based Crescent Bowling Company, David is responsible for basic bookkeeping and accounting for the company, which operates three bowling centers and retains some 50 people on its payroll. David notes that the recreation industry can be tough when gas prices go up or the economy tanks: “The first thing people cut is their entertainment dollars.” But day-to-day, he enjoys being part of a family-oriented business that builds community. He says, “The most rewarding thing is working with the people, both the employees and the customers.”

David, who is president of his church council at First Lutheran and is active with the Masons, stays connected to the Harding community by serving on the Alumni Board and being a Harding parent. He and wife Holly have three children: Lauren, JoHelen, and Nathan, enrolled in seventh grade, fifth grade, and third grade, respectively. “The kids just love it over there,” he says, noting, “The nurturing environment is still there, and overall it’s a community that just keeps blooming.”