In Memory of Dr. Lawrence A. Davis

IN MEMORY OF DR. LAWRENCE A. DAVIS, SR.-HON. MIKE ROSS (Extensions of Remarks - June 18, 2004)

HON. MIKE ROSS
OF ARKANSAS
IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES

THURSDAY, JUNE 17, 2004

Mr. ROSS. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor the life and legacy of a devoted and well-respected Arkansan, Dr. Lawrence A. Davis, Sr. Known as Prexy to close family and friends, Dr. Davis passed away on Saturday, June 5, at the age of 89. His deep devotion to higher education and to the well-being of everyone around him, particularly his students, leaves a legacy that will live on for generations in the lives he touched.

A native of McCroy, Arkansas, Dr. Davis graduated magna cum laude in 1937 from Arkansas AM&N in Pine Bluff. He went on to receive a master's degree in English from the University of Kansas and a doctorate in educational administration from the University of Arkansas.

Dr. Davis spent most of his career at Arkansas AM&N, where he served as an English professor, registrar, dean, and assistant to the president. In 1943, at age 29, Dr. Davis became president of AM&N, making him the youngest college president in the Nation. Thirty years later, he oversaw the merger of Arkansas AM&N with the University of Arkansas education system, creating the University of Arkansas at Pine Bluff, and became the school's first chancellor. His son, Dr. Lawrence A. Davis, Jr., has followed in his father's footsteps and serves as the current UAPB chancellor.

Under Dr. Davis' leadership, the institution experienced substantial growth in enrollment, academic programs, faculty, and expansion of the physical campus. Believing that every person has the right to receive a college education, Dr. Davis inspired and helped countless students who had limited resources to complete their degrees and go on to accomplish great things.

Serving his community and improving the lives of others were life-long commitments of this compassionate and diligent leader. Dr. Davis was a member of numerous community and university committees.

My thoughts and prayers are with Dr. Davis' family, friends, and colleagues, to whom I extend my deepest and sincere sympathies. May his legacy endure in the many lives that he touched and inspired.

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