David Taliaferro is the Commandant of Cadets at California State University Maritime
Academy bringing leadership experience as a maritime professional, military officer,
and higher education administrator. Most recently, he served as the Director of Leadership
and Ethics at the United States Merchant Marine Academy in Kings Point, New York and
as the Support Operations Mobility Officer in the 369th Sustainment Brigade "Harlem
Hellfighters".
David is leading the Commandant's Department in support of the Cal Maritime's Strategic
Plan, as well as the Edwards Leadership Development Program – a comprehensive co-curricular
program partnered with the Center for Creative Leadership that focuses on providing
cadets with a distinct advantage as they enter their respective global professions.
David holds an MA with a concentration in Organizational Psychology from Columbia
University and a BS in Logistics and Intermodal Transportation from the United States
Merchant Marine Academy where he also earned his US Coast Guard Third Mate license.
He is currently a doctoral candidate in the Adult Learning and Leadership program
at Columbia University.
David is a four-time combat veteran with deployments overseas in support of Operation
Iraqi Freedom, Operation Enduring Freedom, and Operation Spartan Shield. His awards
and decorations include the Bronze Star Medal, Meritorious Service Medal, and Combat
Infantryman Badge.
David and his wife, Erika, live with their son, Wyatt, in Vallejo, California.