David Colgan

David Colgan is a writer and creative director with a background in policy, law and politics. He came to IoES to bring environmental issues to a broader audience, with a goal of effecting positive changes in public policy, business and community life. His work is animated by the belief that many seemingly-complex issues are — at their core — human and relatable, affecting the world and all who live here.

At IoES, he heads up the creative and technical communications team. He emphasizes fact-based reporting, transparency and optimistic storytelling with a range of written and visual media. His team actively engages external writers and publications, connecting them to experts, stories and information of interest to their audiences. They leverage social media, technology and the energy of the UCLA community to amplify the institute’s work.

Prior to joining UCLA, David worked for Los Angeles County for six years — the bulk of which was spent as a deputy for former Supervisor Zev Yaroslavsky, where he wrote public interest stories and handled various policy and community issues, including justice and public transportation. His reporting there was republished in numerous print, radio and television news outlets.

David holds a bachelor’s degree in political science from the University of Pittsburgh and a juris doctorate from University of Southern California Gould School of Law. He co-authored the multiple award-winning book The Green Bundle: Pairing the Market with the Planet with IoES faculty member Magali Delmas, as well as a forthcoming children’s book about a squirrel. He lives with his daughter in Sherman Oaks and spends his free time hiking, exploring the cultural landscape and enjoying L.A.’s modern renaissance.