David wanted to go in to business. But when he graduated from Woodmont High School, he didn't have the funding he needed to start working on his business degree. After talking it over with his family, David enrolled in Army for three years so that he could qualify for the GI bill. His decision took him overseas to serve in Desert Storm.

While serving, David received a call from a former teacher who told him about a teacher's scholarship that was available at USC-Upstate. David explained to the teacher that he was going to study business. But she insisted he apply, and David was accepted. David remembers fondly the day he first stood in front of a classroom as a student teacher and realized she had been right to push him.

David is now Berea Middle school's eighth grade assistant principal and athletic director. He implemented several incentive programs for his students including the BAA and PBIS. The BAA focuses on reducing negative behavior, increasing attendance, and improving their academics. PBIS implements a Positive Behavior Intervention System. David approached several local business owners and got them to donate prizes, gift cards, and logo merchandise. Students are rewarded points and certificates based on their behavior, attendance, and grades and can use them to redeem prizes throughout the year.

David received a BS in Secondary Education/Social Studies from USC-Upstate, an M.Ed in History, and an Ed. S in Administration (both from Converse College). He has been in education for eleven years and has served as a teacher, counselor, adjunct professor and now an administrator. David credits his mother, Willette Sweeney, as his inspiration and personal hero.

For his dedication to motivate his students to get the most out of their education, 107.3 JAMZ is proud to salute David Fuller as a 2008 Upstate Black History Maker.