Central Michigan University receives gift from alumnus for leadership scholarship program

Central Michigan University has received a $1 million legacy gift from 1974 alumnus Cam Davis to establish a leadership scholarship program for students in the College of Business Administration. Davis received what he calls a transformative education from Central Michigan University and wishes to pay it forward to give others the same opportunity.

According to an article on Central Michigan University’s website, Neil MacKinnon, the university’s president, was quoted as saying of Davis’ gift, “Providing students with access to hands-on, real-world experiential learning opportunities is part of what guarantees successful career outcomes. Cam’s gift will make it possible for more students to take advantage of those incredible opportunities and to build skills and professional networks that will carry them into the future. We are grateful for his leadership and commitment to supporting our students for generations to come.”

Davis graduated from Central Michigan University in 1974 after studying political science and psychology. He was an active student on campus, participating in Student Senate and founding a political science student club. He also studied abroad and managed to complete his bachelor degree in only three years. He later earned a Master of Business Administration from Babson College and went to law school at University of San Diego. 

Speaking of his time at Central Michigan University, Davis said, “I was the typical freshman — an average student who had to make my way. I credit CMU for giving me the tools and self-confidence to become a functional adult. It was the foundation for all I’ve been able to experience in my life.”

The scholarship will support junior or senior undergraduate students or graduate students who are pursuing a degree in the College of Business. It will also provide funding for students to be able to attend events and workshops, covering event registration and travel. First preference for scholarship awards will be for individuals who volunteer on campus or in the larger community, and those who are in leadership roles in a professional organization.

Davis said, “I hope this financial support helps students think out of the box and to think of themselves as having far greater capabilities than they ever imagined. I want to ensure they're not self-limiting and that they view themselves both with a critical and accepting eye, realizing that who they are is not who they will be. I want my gift to encourage other alumni to identify the positive influences in their lives that made them better than they thought they would be. Then I hope they consider giving back so that others will have the same experience.”

Jennifer Cotter, who serves as the university’s Vice President for Advancement, said, “Cam is a perfect example of the importance of having estate plans in place and incorporating organizations that will extend your impact on others forever. CMU was pivotal for Cam, and he is making sure students always have access to a life-changing CMU education and experiences.”

For more information about Central Michigan University, visit the school’s website.