David Mishkin

Growing up in Chicago, David Mishkin always looked forward to weekend escapes to the countryside. Throughout his high school and college years, he helped his aunt and uncle create a horse farm from raw land. But once he’d earned a degree in business management and started a career as an options trader, he found himself stuck indoors staring at a computer. Starting out, he lived with his young family in a downtown high-rise, while dreaming of raising his children in a quieter, more peaceful environment.

When plans for Southall started to sharpen, David saw a chance to help build something that could become a legacy, that would allow him to work outdoors and have the kids experience it all. Over the past five years, he’s spearheaded key components of the outdoor experience at Southall, from establishing native warm-season grasses and butterfly sanctuaries to managing the development of Lake Mishkin and the creation of miles of hiking trails that wind through the hills. Within the forest, David’s team has spent years removing invasive species to ensure a healthy environment and bringing a world-class aerial obstacle course to life high among the treetops.

As Southall’s Executive Property Manager, he’s responsible for farm and landscape development and operations, as well as Nick’s Outfitter (named for his oldest son), where guests will coordinate activities ranging from falconry and axe throwing to fishing and paddling. David has also been focused on conceptualizing the back side of the farm, which will house a golf simulator facility, dedicated running trails, an archery range, and more. Over time, on the far reaches of the property, he envisions the construction of more woodland trail systems, restoration of fescue pastures to native habitat for wildlife, and endless opportunities to engage guests in all of the adventure that awaits at Southall.

Creating spaces for people to discover, to slow down and enjoy, has been incredibly rewarding. Since 2017, David has been working to ensure not only memorable experiences but also the refined details that make them safe and enjoyable. Much of what may have seemed impossible back then has been brought to life, just waiting to be discovered by generations to come.