NORTH CHARLESTON, S.C. — Trident United Way has named David “Dave” Forman its first chief of staff. A former U.S. Navy leader, Forman brings experience that includes submarine command and senior leadership at the U.S. Naval Academy.
Forman joined Trident United Way on Oct. 5. Working closely with President and CEO DJ Hampton, staff and the board of directors, he coordinates major initiatives across departments and helps move key decisions into action.
His appointment comes as Trident United Way expands Thrive@™ access points across the Tri-County, making it easier for families to connect with Family Coaching where they already live, work and learn.
“Setting a bold goal is one thing. Reaching it is the work,” Hampton said. “We’ve committed to uplifting 15,000 families out of poverty by 2035. That goal has to shape how we work every day. That’s why we created this role. Dave has spent his career leading teams where the mission was clear and follow-through wasn’t optional. I’m grateful he chose to bring that experience to our team.”
For Forman, joining Trident United Way also marks a return to Charleston. He first arrived in the region in 1998 for nuclear power training. He met his wife here, and the couple later married in Charleston. Their wedding photos were taken at the Pineapple Fountain in Waterfront Park. After years of moves, the Formans are back where their story began.
“Service has defined my whole life, and I wanted to keep going,” Forman said. “I looked at opportunities across the country, but I’m grateful to have found one right here. I still believe the most meaningful work happens face to face, neighbor to neighbor, and that’s what Trident United Way is all about.”
Forman’s Navy career included command of USS Alaska, a nuclear-powered submarine whose crew earned U.S. Strategic Command’s Omaha Trophy. Most recently, he served as deputy commandant of midshipmen at the U.S. Naval Academy, where he led day-to-day operations for the 4,400-member Brigade of Midshipmen and an 80-person team. He is also a member of the 2026 Presidential Leadership Scholars cohort and recently received the U.S. Naval Academy Class of 1958 Admiral Charles R. Larson Ethical Leadership Excellence Award.
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ABOUT TRIDENT UNITED WAY
For more than 80 years, Trident United Way has been a trusted partner in building a stronger future for Berkeley, Charleston and Dorchester counties. With a bold goal to uplift 15,000 families out of poverty by 2035, we lead collaborative solutions that increase income, reduce debt and open pathways to opportunity for local families, creating lasting impact for generations to come.