Dr. Davis has been a member of the Centenary faculty since 1986 and was appointed the Acting Dean of the Frost School of Business in June 2020.
Dr. Davis has been a member of the Centenary faculty since 1986 and was appointed the Acting Dean of the Frost School of Business in June 2020. She kindly took the time to answer a few questions while preparing for the start of the new academic year.
What is the best thing about working at Centenary College?
The students that I teach are the best thing about working at Centenary. I think we have some of the brightest, talented, most respectful students for any professor to have the privilege to teach. I enjoy the students in all my classes and I especially enjoy advising.
Are there any embarrassing teaching moments you are willing to share?
When my middle daughter was a baby (a very long time ago) and it was my first semester at Centenary, I was assigned an 8 am MWF class and then a 9 am MWF class. I had a four-year-old and a 9-month-old at the time. Mornings were very hectic trying to get everyone where they needed to be and for me to get to an 8 am class. After teaching both classes one day, I went to the ladies' room and looked in the mirror for the first time since leaving home. I had a huge grape jelly smear all over the left shoulder on my red blouse. I had no idea the 9-month-old had used me as her napkin and then I wore it to two classes without even knowing it! Needless to say, I did everything to not have 8 am classes after that.
If you could enroll in a colleague's class for a day in which class would you enroll and why?
I would enroll in Music Theory. I love music and play the piano and organ just a little. I know chords but only by notes not by understanding what it means. I would want to study music theory for at least two semesters.
What is the best piece of advice you have received?
Be kind to everyone. I hope I do this consistently, but sometimes, I'm sure I fail. Just have to keep thinking about the impact kindness has on every person you see each day.
What accomplishment are you most proud of?
I am glad that a Centenary alum told me about the CFAExam. I passed this rigorous exam consisting of three levels taken over a three-year period. I am one of a few CFA Charterholders in this area. Now I have students who have graduated and successfully passed this exam as well.
What do you enjoy doing when you are not on campus?
I love to travel. I have been fortunate to travel to several countries and explore the area's history. I also love snow skiing and outdoor activities.
What is your favorite class to teach and why?
I love the Australia Module. Australia is a beautiful country with a history dating (some believe) over 60,000 years. It allows students to study Aboriginal culture and history. I have met so many different people over the years. Hearing their stories is so intriguing. It's so much fun to be with Centenary students and see their faces the first time they feed a kangaroo or hold a koala.