David Selikowitz, HK 2016 (1942-2024)
The Kroks were first introduced to David Selikowitz in 1994 by Michelle Sandberg (H ’95). He had been running for several years a very popular AIDS benefit event in Paris and had affiliated with the Yale ex pat community. That year the Whiffenpoofs summer touring schedule did not align with the scheduled night of the benefit. Michelle made the connection to the Kroks who found him a magnanimous and caring man and never gave him back to the Whiffs.
At some point the AIDS benefits stopped, but the celebrations and dinner parties in Paris have continued every summer when the Kroks arrive. Whether it is singing at a street side cafe, or on his fantastic terrace with a view of the Eiffel Tour, the Kroks always have a wonderful time in Paris with David, even when they are alums and bring their family!
David has also opened his arms to Krok alums with many joining his entourage’s January holidays on Fisher Island, costume and holiday parties with friends, and pent-annual birthday soirées around the world.
As an active professional in the world of international barter, David’s connections and assistance have proved a wonderful asset for the Kroks over the years. For instance, in 2007, he enabled the group to sing at the Belgian Ambassador’s residence in Paris. Later, in an effort to fill a hole in the tour itinerary in 2010, David brought the Kroks to Barcelona where he arranged a performance at his company’s annual meeting.
David’s generosity knows no bounds, and his devotion to our group over these many years, his passion for music, and his indefatigable joie de vivre make him a natural Honorary Krok.
Like many of our Honorary Kroks, David makes the journey to Boston for our major reunions.
David was named an Honorary Krok during our 70th anniversary celebration in March, 2016. Surrounded by Kroks from every decade as well as other Honorary Kroks, we presented him with a book of letters and photos and joined together with him to sing “Loch Lomond” to welcome him into our brotherhood.
From the recollections of Frank DeSimone and Jim Doak
Biography:
David launched Active International France in 1993 following a successful career in the field of sales and media. Today, he is President of Europe of Active International, notably on the development of international travel services of Active. David is among the only Americans to be quoted in “Who’s Who in France.”
https://www.activeinternational.fr/en-ce-qui-nous-concerne/notre-equipe
Prior to this he was the French Director of Icon International, Inc. and the Founder and CEO of American Marketing, Europe’s largest coupon book company – a marketing tool that was used by Volvo, TWA, AT&T among many other multi-national companies. He received his Bachelor’s degree in Sociology from Western Maryland College in 1963.