David Zapolsky on Music, Leadership, and Expanding What Is Possible
(Pictured) Dr. Quinton Morris and David Zapolsky engaged in conversation on January 15, 2026
When students see someone who once stood where they stand now, new possibilities begin to take shape. On January 15, 2026, that sense of possibility filled the room as Key to Change welcomed David Zapolsky, Chief Global Affairs and Legal Officer of Amazon, for the fourth lecture in our Inspiring Possibilities college and career readiness series.
In conversation with Key to Change Founder and Executive Director Dr. Quinton Morris, Zapolsky shared a candid and deeply personal look at his journey, from studying music as an undergraduate to becoming one of the most senior leaders at a global company. The discussion explored college choices, career pivots, mentorship, and the realities of leadership, offering students a rare opportunity to hear directly from someone who has navigated complex and unconventional paths.
Zapolsky’s own story reflects the interdisciplinary future many students are preparing for. He earned his undergraduate degree in music from Columbia University before receiving his law degree with honors from the University of California, Berkeley. He joined Amazon in 1999 as Associate General Counsel for Litigation and Regulatory matters and rose steadily through the organization, becoming Vice President in 2002, General Counsel and Secretary in 2012, and Senior Vice President in 2014. Today, he oversees Amazon’s legal, policy, compliance, and regulatory affairs. Prior to Amazon, he served as an Assistant District Attorney in Brooklyn and practiced law at leading firms in New York and Seattle. Zapolsky is also an Affiliate Instructor at the School of Law at the University of Washington.
The evening began not with words, but with music. Two current Key to Change student violinists, Thomas Luu and Laila West, opened the event with special performances. For Zapolsky, a trained tenor who continues to sing in vocal ensembles, the moment set the tone for the conversation. Music, he shared, was not simply a chapter of his past, but a foundation for his leadership. The discipline, listening skills, collaboration, and persistence he developed through music continue to shape how he approaches his work today.
As the conversation unfolded, students and guests reflected on how a passion for music can coexist with careers in law, technology, public service, and beyond. Zapolsky emphasized the value of curiosity, mentorship, and remaining open to unexpected opportunities, reinforcing that there is no single path to success.
Guests left the event energized and inspired, with a broader understanding of the opportunities available across industries and a deeper appreciation for how the arts can inform leadership and professional growth. Events like this embody the heart of the Inspiring Possibilities series, connecting students with accomplished leaders who expand their sense of what is achievable.
We are deeply grateful to David Zapolsky for sharing his time, insight, and honesty with our community, and to our students for leading the evening with their music and curiosity.
The Inspiring Possibilities series continues on Thursday, February 5, when Joan Wang, Managing Director of the Pacific Northwest Region at Delta Air Lines, joins Dr. Morris for another engaging conversation.
Join us as we continue to open doors for students. Attend an upcoming Inspiring Possibilities event, support Key to Change’s programs, or learn more about how music education builds leadership and opportunity at every stage of life.
(Pictured Left) Key to Change violin student, Thomas L. (Pictured Right) Key to Change violin student, Laila W.
(Pictured) Dr. Quinton Morris and David Zapolsky pictured together after the Inspiring Possibilities event
