Virginia State University is in mourning following the passing of Mrs. Peggy Davis, the associate vice president for athletics, who died this week. With over 27 years of dedicated service to the university, Mrs. Davis left an indelible mark on VSU’s Athletics Department. She is recognized for her compassionate leadership and unwavering commitment to student-athletes.
“Words cannot fully capture what Mrs. Davis meant to Virginia State University,” stated Dr. Makola M. Abdullah, president of VSU, in a heartfelt message to the Trojan family. “She was a beacon of hope, an inspiring leader, and a champion for our student-athletes, always working to ensure their success in the classroom, in their athletic pursuits, and after graduation. Her unwavering dedication to the mission of our University, her extraordinary achievements, and her selflessness in always putting others first will never be forgotten.”
Davis’ Impact on VSU
Davis’s impact on VSU athletics is profound. Under her stewardship, the Trojans achieved remarkable competitive successes, including 20 NCAA Division II tournament appearances, 26 CIAA Championship titles, and 44 Coach of the Year honors. Her tenure saw the Trojans win the C.H. Williams All-Sports Award for men 11 times and the Loretta Taylor All-Sports Award for women 6 times.
In addition to her competitive achievements, Mrs. Davis was a trailblazer for diversity and inclusion within the realm of intercollegiate athletics. In 2020, she led the department to national acclaim when it received the NCAA Division II Award of Excellence. The following year, she was honored with the 2021 Minority Opportunities Athletic Association Distinguished Service Award for her efforts in promoting diversity in sports.
Beyond her administrative accomplishments, Mrs. Davis was known for fostering academic excellence among student-athletes. Under her leadership, the Trojans achieved their highest-ever graduation rates and academic success rates, receiving national recognition from the NCAA for academic excellence.
A Texas native, Davis earned her undergraduate degree from Howard Payne University and later completed her master’s degree at Tarleton State University. Over her distinguished career, she has served in various leadership roles, including Interim Commissioner of the Central Intercollegiate Athletic Association, becoming the first woman to lead the historic conference.
In light of this unexpected loss, the university encourages individuals needing support to seek counseling services available through the University Counseling Center.