David Bertrand

Dr. David W. Bertrand is a Clinical Associate Professor and Director of the Sport Performance Leadership (SPL) program. He is an award-winning scholar and leadership coach with two decades of blended experience in human development, high-performance coaching, and education.

In 2018, his research his was awarded the 1st place prize at the annual conference of The Institute of Coaching, a Harvard Medical School Affiliate and the premiere global gathering of thought leaders concerning the nexus of executive coaching and leadership. Dr. Bertrand is experienced in working with leaders and executives at all levels including the C-Suite, Division I head coaches and their staffs, and of course, young rising leaders at SMU.

Dr. Bertrand was appointed the Inaugural Director of the SPL specialization in 2013 and over the years has worked closely with organizations such as USA Triathlon, National Strength & Conditioning Association (NCSA), and United States Olympic & Paralympic Committee, to certify, develop, and educate coaches.

He also is a frequent contributor and speaker at professional conferences around the world including International Council for Coaching Excellence (Tokyo, Japan), Institute of Coaching, NSCA’s Endurance Clinic, USA Triathlon’s International Art & Science Symposium, and more. Dr. Bertrand has been described by his peers as an insightful and often inspirational coach, empowering and thoughtfully guiding others to rise confidently to their truest selves and greatest potential.

His hobbies include being active in the outdoors, following sports teams in north Texas, and taking on the daily crossword puzzle. He and his wife Nikki live in Dallas with their three children, Annie, Tessa, and Johnny.