[3] Previously, he was editor of The Charlotte Observer, and earlier held reporting and editing positions at four newspapers.

[4] In August 2018, Lawrence published his autobiography, "A Dedicated Life: Journalism, Justice and a Chance for Every Child.

"[5] Lawrence retired in 1999 as publisher of the Miami Herald to work in the area of early childhood development and readiness.

[7] Governor Jeb Bush named Lawrence to the Florida Partnership for School Readiness, and he chaired that oversight board twice.

The David Lawrence Jr. K-8 Public School opened in 2006 across from the north campus of Florida International University.

A fully endowed chair in early childhood studies is established in his name at the University of Florida College of Education.

[8] Lawrence serves as chair of the Children's Movement of Florida, a citizen-led, non-partisan movement to educate political, business and civic leaders – and all parents of the state – about the urgent need to make the well-being and education of all children Florida's highest priority.