Inspired by a lifetime of experiences

Cam Davis defines his story through a lifetime of experiences. His professional purpose and passion for giving back are fueled by connections with national leaders, celebrities and youth who need others to believe in them.

The 1974 Central Michigan University alumnus recently designated a $1 million legacy gift to establish a leadership scholarship program for College of Business Administration students and fund student experiences similar to those he had at CMU.

“Providing students with access to hands-on, real-world experiential learning opportunities is part of what guarantees successful career outcomes,” said CMU President Neil MacKinnon. “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 came to CMU from metro Detroit in 1971. He studied political science and psychology and became heavily involved on campus. Davis served as president pro tempore of the Student Senate and founded a political science student club. He studied abroad in London and graduated summa cum laude — among the best in his class — after just three years. 

One of Davis’ most memorable experiences was his selection by the State of Michigan to attend a presidential conference in Washington, D.C. While there, he scored a conversation with then–Vice President Gerald Ford and then sat next to Sen. Strom Thurmond on the flight home.

Davis said his time at CMU was truly transformative.

“I was the typical freshman — an average student who had to make my way,” he said. “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.”

After graduating from CMU, Davis earned a Master of Business Administration from Babson College. He moved to California to attend law school at the University of San Diego. He spent many years as a tax lawyer and now is a financial advisor who’s been an entrepreneur most of his professional life.

Davis resides in Los Angeles, representing and living among notable individuals. At one point, LL Cool J was his neighbor

“You’ve never truly lived until LL Cool J has told you to turn down your music,” he joked.

Leaving a lasting legacy

Davis’ life has revolved around giving back. He’s former chair of Make-A-Wish Los Angeles and is very involved with the non-profit C5LA — C5 Youth Foundation of Southern California — helping underserved students change the course of their lives.

In his estate plan, Davis includes CMU and other institutions and charities.

“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,” said Vice President for Advancement Jennifer Cotter. “CMU was pivotal for Cam, and he is making sure students always have access to a life-changing CMU education and experiences.”

Davis’ scholarship will support business students who are juniors or above, have financial need and are pursuing their undergraduate or graduate degree. Preference is given to students who volunteer on campus or in the community or are members in or have leadership roles in an organization.

His funding also will help cover registration and travel fees for students attending workshops, networking events and professional conferences.

“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,” Davis said. “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.”

As a financial advisor, Davis helps his clients realize the importance and reward of philanthropic endeavors and of having plans that cement their commitments. His contribution to CMU and its students reflects that philosophy.

“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,” Davis said.