We are deeply saddened to share that Zdeněk Václav David, one of the very first AFS exchange students, passed away on December 15, 2025. Zed’s journey from Czechoslovakia to the U.S. in 1947 was made possible by AFS, and it set the stage for a remarkable life dedicated to learning, teaching, and connecting across cultures.

After his exchange year at the Putney School in Vermont, Zed pursued a distinguished career as a historian, bibliographer, and scholar of Russian and Eastern European history, authoring numerous articles and books. His contributions were recognized with the František Palacký Honorary Medal from the Czech Academy of Sciences in 2009, among many other honors.

Zed cherished the outdoors, lifelong learning, and above all, his family. He is remembered as kind, gracious, and devoted—a father, grandfather, and mentor who inspired generations.

Watch Zed share his AFS experience and reflections on a life shaped by curiosity and connection: Watch the video

Read his full obituary here: Zdeněk David Obituary

In lieu of flowers, the family asks that donations be made to the Appalachian Trail Conservancy: appalachiantrail.org.

AFS-USA President Tara Hofmann with Zdeněk David in 2024.