Lincoln County School District welcomes Dave Cowden as its newest board member, bringing a unique blend of military service, business experience, and community commitment to the role. Cowden was elected in the May 2025 election for a 4-year term on the Board of Directors.

Cowden, who moved to Yachats with his wife in 2013, served three years in the U.S. Army, including 2½ years in West Germany during the Cold War era. He worked in administration and photo reconnaissance with Intelligence while the Iron Curtain was still in place, earning multiple commendations including the National Defense Service Medal and Good Conduct Medal.

After his military service, Cowden built a 44-year career in sales and marketing for raw metal products while simultaneously pursuing his passion for music. As a professional musician, singer, and songwriter, he achieved two nationally charted records and performed across the U.S., Canada, and Europe with notable acts including The Mamas & Papas, Chicago, and The Guess Who. He was named runner-up for “Most Promising New Artist – Independent Label” by the Kansas Music Hall of Fame and co-founded Great American Goldmine Music record label.

Cowden also operated a photography studio specializing in senior portraits and family events, and ran a house painting business to help fund his children’s college educations. He has five children working in diverse fields including medical science, education, and business management.

“After hearing a call for people to consider running for county positions, I felt a need to give back to this wonderful community,” Cowden said. Having been actively involved in his children’s education and familiar with school board operations, he believes he can offer “a reasoned and thoughtful approach to decisions facing the board.”