Houston Treasures

Paul-David Van Atta

HOUSTON TREASURE FOR 2015

Photo by: Evin Thayer Studios

van atta paul david

Paul-David Van Atta is a name synonymous with high-end production and special events. With a career in special events spanning nearly thirty years, Van Atta’s creations have helped raise hundreds of millions of dollars for various philanthropic and political endeavors. During his career, he has produced events for four US Presidents, Vice President Al Gore, General Colin Powell, Madeleine Albright, Sarah Ferguson, Erin Brockovich, Mikhail Baryshnikov, Paula Zahn, Cheryl Ladd, the United States Olympic Team, the NFL (SuperBowl XXXVIII) and many others.

After nearly 25 years as a celebrated Special Events guru for Hilton Hotels Corporation, Paul-David took a leap of faith and founded PDV Special Events, LLC. In three years, this special events firm has secured several key accounts in the Houston philanthropic, private, corporate and association markets. Recently, he rebranded the US Fund for UNICEF Old World Ball to the inaugural “Audrey Hepburn Society Ball” and created a musical series, “Unplugged and on a Mission” for the Mission of Yahweh.

Paul-David’s background in musical theatre led him to diversify and become an entertainment buyer for many organizations. His ability to build the energy of an event has garnered him many industry awards including Hilton Hotels Director of Catering of the Year and the Houston Spirit Award from Hotel and Lodging Association of Greater Houston. He is also a Jefferson Award recipient and continues his philanthropic work with many charitable organizations including the Mission of Yahweh, the Salvation Army, TUTS, The Ensemble Theatre, Legacy Community Health Services, and many others. Paul-David created “Cabaret for a Cure” and produced and directed the musical extravaganza for five years raising more than $2M for HIV|AIDS programs in Houston. Legacy Community Health Services honored him at their annual luncheon with the Legacy Leadership Award in recognition of his contributions. He also gives silently in many ways, including sending the children of the Salvation Army Family Residence to the movies on his birthday each year.

From those to whom much is given, much is expected…that is the mantra that Paul-David has adopted. He strives to make a positive difference in the lives of others and feels that strong and trusting friendships are the most treasured gifts in life.

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