Next in the series is David Kring, a financial planner with a background in theater and music.
Background & Career: Kring’s career path includes diverse experiences spanning performing arts and finance. A 1991 graduate of Gettysburg College with a degree in history, Kring initially worked in the corporate world for a couple of years.
His journey took a creative turn when he pursued an acting career from 1993 to 2006, living in New York City and Los Angeles. After getting married in 2004, Kring transitioned to financial planning, working in mortgage banking, insurance, and financial advising.
On becoming a Certified Financial Planner in 2011, Kring established his own company, providing financial advisory services to individuals and small businesses.
Love for Music: “I started playing guitar when I was 15 years old, but my love for music began much earlier. When I was 7 or 8, my older sisters took piano lessons, and my parents asked if I wanted to learn as well. I declined at the time, but in high school, I found that playing guitar was considered cool. I took lessons for about a year and enjoyed playing with other musicians.
“That experience has informed how I’ve approached music education with my own children. I believe it should be part of their foundational education. I’ve found that a musically trained mind opens up the brain in unique ways and provides a great escape.”
How Did He Learn About The Presser Foundation?: Kring joined The Presser Foundation through his connection with the Finance Committee. “MJ [Bobyock, Finance Committee Chair] knew I was interested in both music and finance,” he explains. He has now served on the Board for four years.
Role at the Foundation: Assistance Committee Member, Finance Committee Member
What He Enjoys: “I believe in opening up musical education for everyone. The musical mind approaches theory mathematically – it’s another way to expand how you think. It’s rewarding to be a part of an organization that gives money that provides access to music that people might not otherwise encounter.”
Standout Memory: “Attending the Philly Pops Christmas event stands out as a wonderful evening with a great performance.”
Impact of the Foundation: Kring believes the Foundation’s primary impact is in education and making music accessible to those who might otherwise not have the opportunity.
Vision for the Future: For the future, Kring hopes to see “an expanded reach of who we’re giving to. I’d like to see more children experiencing music education and exposure to music at an earlier age.”
What Does He Do in His Free Time?: Kring is married with two children, two cats, and two rats.
He continues to pursue theater and music as hobbies. He performs with Salt Productions in productions like “The Sound of Music” and “Beauty and the Beast.” He also performs as a solo guitarist and singer at restaurants and parties around Chester County. .
“I’m also an avid gardener with two acres. I enjoy being outside tending to vegetables and landscaping while listening to the birds – just being in nature.”
