Davis, Douglas P. Endowed Scholarship Fund
Douglas P. Davis was known for his bright smile, love for family, and eagerness to make new friends. The University of Akron College of Education is honored to celebrate the memory of Douglas P. Davis, who died too soon on December 2, 2012. Through Doug’s legacy, opportunities for students in the College who seek a career in helping those with special needs will be created.
Barbara P. Davis, Doug’s mother, established The Douglas P. Davis Endowed Scholarship Fund as a way to express her gratitude for everyone who assisted Doug during his lifetime and final days. Much care and love filled his days, including that of his family, and the personnel who assisted him will never be forgotten.
Douglas P. Davis was born with Down syndrome and eventually was diagnosed with Alzheimer’s. These debilitating disabilities did not prohibit him from making a lasting impression on everyone he met during his 56 years of life. Douglas had a tremendous impact on the medical staff and caregivers he worked with and will be remembered for his infectious personality. Douglas’ sister, Betsy Davis, spoke of how he rarely had an unhappy day and always was willing to speak to individuals he came in contact with. Douglas was blessed with two siblings, Kurt and Betsy, and loving parents, Donald and Barbara.
For many years, Barbara Davis has been interested and involved in supporting scholarships for students at the University because of her belief in the value of higher education and her involvement with The College Club of Akron. She decided a scholarship would be a meaningful way to allow Douglas to have a continued impact on people’s lives. Mrs. Davis made the first contribution in 2013, with a goal of having a fund that would give in perpetuity. Once endowed, this scholarship will be available annually to a student pursuing a degree in the College of Education. Preference will be given to students with a special-education teaching concentration and students who have a demonstrated financial need. The award recipient(s) will be determined by the College of Education’s Dean’s Office.
Due to the generosity of the Mary Frances Shale Trust, this fund will receive matching dollars for contributions received until the Shale Trust monies are exhausted.
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