George E. Davis (1862-1959)

Portrait by Ricky Singh, 2021

As a teacher and education advocate, George Davis inspired generations of students and their families with his tireless efforts to ensure Black children had access to education.

Born in Wilmington to a well-to-do family, George Davis attended private, elite Black schools before moving to Biddle Institute in Charlotte, known today as Johnson C. Smith University. After graduating, he spent a short time at Howard University, but returned to Biddle to join the staff as the Institute's first Black professor. There, he taught natural science and sociology, coached several athletic teams, served as the dean of faculty, and was an active member of the State Teachers' Association.

Davis retired from the Biddle Institute in 1920 and was immediately hired by the State of North Carolina in the Division of Negro Education. He served as one of two Rosenwald Fund Assistants to the Division Director, Nathan Newbold. In the role of Supervisor of Rosenwald Buildings, Davis was the highest ranking African American in state government. Through his efforts, Black communities across the state raised more than $600,000 to fund Rosenwald schools for their children.