Meet Mr. David Bess – CAVAD's New Creativity Foundations Lecturer

CAVAD welcomes a familiar face into a new and exciting role aimed at benefiting all CAVAD majors. Adjunct professor Dr. David Bess is stepping into the new role of Creativity Foundations Lecturer for the 2026–2027 school year. 

Dr. Bess brings a unique perspective to the goal of combining creativity and theology together. He began his higher education journey at the University of La Verne with his Bachelor's of Photography. Since then, he has received multiple graduate degrees including a Master of Arts in Bible & Theology, a Master of Fine Arts in Visual and Performing Arts, and a Master of Divinity. Dr. Bess’ most recent accomplishment is his Doctor of Ministry degree from Azusa Pacific University, which he completed this year. 

Bess' new CAVAD role will center around instilling the core principles of Christian creativity into all CAVAD students. At CAVAD, the biblical concept of beauty as goodness and ultimate truth is at the center of what we do and believe. CAVAD strives to empower students to take a biblical approach to creativity rather than a subjective and secular one. Dr. Bess hopes and plans to help broach these fundamental beliefs and help students recognize their fuller purpose as Christian creatives. 

When asked what excites him most about his new role, he shared: “To let our students know that there’s still a place for ministry within visual communication and design. I want to be able to show them how their giftings are in themselves ministry opportunities and that there’s a place for their creative abilities to minister both in the world and in the church.” 

To learn more about CAVAD and its core principles, please click here.