Peggy Davis, Virginia State University’s associate vice president for athletics who led the institution’s sports programs to numerous championships and accolades over nearly three decades, died Wednesday, Oct. 16, 2024. She was a longtime fixture in NCAA Division II athletics.

During her 27-year tenure, Davis guided VSU’s athletic programs to 26 CIAA Championship titles, 20 NCAA Division II tournament appearances, and saw the university’s coaches earn 44 Coach of the Year honors.

In 2020, under Davis’ leadership, VSU received the NCAA Division II Award of Excellence.

She was honored the following year with the Minority Opportunities Athletic Association Distinguished Service Award for her work advancing diversity and inclusion in college athletics.

Davis made history as the first woman to serve as interim commissioner of the Central Intercollegiate Athletic Association, a 12-member athletic conference. She was named CIAA Athletic Director of the Year seven times.

“She was a beacon of hope, an inspiring leader, and a champion for our student-athletes,” the university said in a statement.

“Her unwavering dedication to the mission of our University, her extraordinary achievements and her selflessness in always putting others first will never be forgotten.”

Memorial arrangements are pending.