David Rosenberg is a partner with Holland & Knight LLP, having joined Thompson & Knight in 1984. His practice and expertise are focused on nonprofits, including federal, state, and local taxation, corporate governance, and sophisticated charitable giving techniques. He has vast experience in creating, modifying, maintaining, merging, and dissolving nonprofits of all shapes and sizes.
“When I was a young lawyer, I had the opportunity to work with Vester Hughes, alongside my mentor Mike McCullough, who played a pivotal role in helping me get started with my tax specialization in the nonprofit sector,” said David Rosenberg. “Vester was extraordinarily helpful and gracious in each instance that we worked together.”
David is known as a go-to “guru” for charitable organizations across North Texas and beyond. His reputation is evident not only in his client list but also the number of boards he’s served on. He’s worked closely with CFT for over a decade and is regarded as an incredible teacher, trusted advisor, role model and friend.
“David Rosenberg embodies the best qualities of Vester Hughes, and we are excited to recognize him as our 2025 Vester Hughes Award Recipient,” said Carolyn Newham, General Counsel at Communities Foundation of Texas. “There is no greater seal of approval than something David has created or blessed for a nonprofit. He’s dedicated his professional career to the charitable sector, and our region’s philanthropic community has truly been made better through his efforts.”
In choosing the recipient of the Vester Hughes Award, CFT looks for a professional advisor who has contributed substantially to their field, someone who champions charitable giving through their work and personal commitments. Recipients support CFT’s mission of growing community giving by skillfully guiding clients’ charitable giving. Award winners also stand out through their thoughtful mentorship of fellow advisors.
“We’re truly inspired by David and the impact he’s made and continues to make in the Dallas-Fort Worth community.” said Communities Foundation of Texas’ President & CEO, Wayne White.
About CFT’s Vester Hughes Award
CFT created the Vester Hughes Award in honor of Vester Hughes’ legacy, his longstanding commitment to charitable causes, and his support of CFT’s philanthropic initiatives. Vester first began working with CFT in 1958 and served as the foundation’s general counsel or senior tax counsel for more than 50 years.
During his tenure, CFT grew into one of the most prominent and trusted community foundations in the country. Vester Hughes is also credited for helping create the W.W. Caruth, Jr. Fund at CFT, which has granted $278 million since inception to local nonprofits.
Beyond his work with CFT, Vester was a renowned tax attorney, influencing many aspects of federal taxation; arguing cases before the United States Supreme Court, and successfully lobbying Congress on several occasions to amend federal tax laws. Throughout his career, he was frequently called upon by staff members of the U.S. Department of the Treasury and Congress for his view on tax policy and pending legislation.
Vester Hughes Award recipients include: David M. Rosenberg (2025), John Bergner (2022), Kathy Muldoon (2019) and Jack Kinnebrew (2017). For honoree recommendations, please contact Carolyn A. Newham.
Watch CFT’s Vester Hughes Award video honoring David M. Rosenberg, 2025 recipient.
