David Grindrod '09 Named 2026 ICS Julius Smith III Distinguished Alumni Awardee
Indian Creek School is proud to announce David Grindrod, Class of 2009, as the recipient of the 2026 Julius Smith III Distinguished Alumni Award.
David will return to campus on May 28 to address the Class of 2026 at their Green and Gold Ceremony, a full-circle moment in his journey from student to accomplished artist and educator.
A New York City–based director, choreographer, performer, and educator, David has built a dynamic career in the performing arts. He began professionally as Mark on the National Tour of A Chorus Line under the direction of Tony Award recipient Baayork Lee, later reprising the role at New York City Center. In recognition of his work and dedication, Lee named David her associate for major productions of A Chorus Line, including its China premiere and the 50th Anniversary Celebration on Broadway.
David continues to collaborate with Lee on productions across the country, contributing to acclaimed stagings of classic musicals such as Beauty and the Beast, West Side Story, and Cats. As a director and choreographer, his work has been seen at respected regional theaters nationwide, earning honors for choreography and bringing new energy to both contemporary and classic productions.
On stage, David has performed nationally and internationally, with credits including Beauty and the Beast, A Chorus Line in Japan, and appearances at Walt Disney World and Universal Orlando.
David’s story began at Indian Creek School in 1996, when he arrived as a kindergartener. Over the next 13 years, ICS provided him with a strong academic foundation, a close-knit community, and a place to explore and develop his passion for the arts. From early performances in the middle school musical to graduating as part of the second Upper School class, David embraced every opportunity to grow as a performer and storyteller.
He has remained closely connected to ICS, serving as a counselor for Broadway Bound and Rising Stars camps, choreographing for students preparing for performing arts auditions, and mentoring aspiring artists through Musical Theater College Auditions (MTCA), and even choreographing the Upper School musical Bring It On virtually during the COVID pandemic.
David joins previous ICS Distinguished Alumni Award winners Devin Barclay '97, Helen (Selonick) Prevas '99, Tom Simmons '97, and Julius C. Smith III '09, who have each stayed connected to the school and shared their wisdom, time, talents, and treasure with Creek students of today.
Indian Creek School is honored to recognize David Grindrod’s achievements and his continued dedication to inspiring the next generation of artists.
David joins previous ICS Distinguished Alumni Award winners Devin Barclay '97, Helen (Selonick) Prevas '99, Tom Simmons '97, and Julius C. Smith III '09, who have each stayed connected to the school and shared their wisdom, time, talents, and treasure with Creek students of today.
Indian Creek School is honored to recognize David Grindrod’s achievements and his continued dedication to inspiring the next generation of artists.
Indian Creek School
Indian Creek school is a co-educational, college preparatory independent school, located in Crownsville, Maryland. Students in Pre-K3 through grade 12 receive a vibrant educational experience based on excellent academics steeped in strong student-teacher connections.
