The Passing of Mrs. Peggy Davis, VSU Associate Vice President for Athletics

Trojan Family,

It is with deep sadness that we share the news of the passing of Virginia State University Associate Vice President for Athletics, Mrs. Peggy Davis. Mrs. Davis passed away early this morning. For more than 27 years, she has been an integral leader of our Athletics Department, leading with exceptional dedication and compassion for our student-athletes.

Words cannot fully capture what Mrs. Davis meant to Virginia State University. 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. Mrs. Davis was one of the most highly respected professionals of her time and was held in the highest esteem on a local, regional, and national level.

In 2020, Mrs. Davis guided our department to national recognition as the recipient of the NCAA Division II Award of Excellence. The following year, she was honored with the 2021 Minority Opportunities Athletic Association (MOAA) Distinguished Service Award for her efforts to promote diversity and inclusion in intercollegiate athletics. In addition, she was named CIAA Athletic Director of the Year seven times. Mrs. Davis also served as Interim Commissioner of the CIAA, becoming the first woman to lead the 12-member athletic conference.

Under her leadership, the Trojans earned twenty NCAA Division II tournament appearances, twenty-six CIAA Championship titles, twenty CIAA Divisional titles, and forty-four Coach of the Year honors.

On behalf of the entire VSU community, the administration extends its deepest sympathies for this tremendous loss. We know you join us in expressing our heartfelt condolences to Mrs. Davis’ family, friends, the athletic department, and the entire Trojan family. We will hold them in our thoughts as we honor the life and legacy of an extraordinary woman who gave so much to our University.

A sudden loss like this can cause intense feelings. We encourage anyone who may need help through this difficult time to seek counseling services. Students may contact the University Counseling Center at 804-524-5939 during business hours or 804-524-5411 after hours.

Details regarding memorial arrangements for Mrs. Peggy Davis will be shared as they become available.

Sincerely,

Makola M. Abdullah, Ph.D.

President