LSUS reveals new learning space with Davis family donation

SHREVEPORT, La. (KTAL/KMSS) — LSU Shreveport (LSUS) officially opens a new learning hub thanks to a generous donation.

The Davis Business Engagement Center was made possible because of a $500,000 donation from Don and Sallie Davis.

Located in a renovated section on the first floor of the College of Business and Education, the center includes a lounge, a rolling stock ticker, a state-of-the-art classroom, and a group study room.

While the grand opening and ribbon-cutting made the Davis Center official, students have been getting familiar with the space since the first furniture arrived last semester.

Dr. Mary Lois White, the LSUS College of Business Dean, said, “Students immediately found it, and they’ve been using this area and the group study room in the back. It’s an important space for students to come between classes and for business engagement opportunities like Pilot Pitch later this fall.

Don and Sallie Davis graduated from Byrd High School. Don entered into an engineering and business career, eventually becoming the CEO of Allen-Bradley and Rockwell International.

When the Davises decided to invest in their hometown, Don’s brother, Parker Davis, visited with the LSUS Chancellor, Dr. Larry Clark.

Clark shared the idea for a center where students, faculty, and business leaders could interact on campus. Because of its start as a commuter school, LSUS had few places on campus for gathering.

Unfortunately, Don Davis did not live to see his contribution come to fruition.

“My brother passed away two months ago, but he would be just ecstatic about this beautiful facility. He valued business so much, and he’d be proud of what’s happening in this center,” his brother, Parker Davis, said.

Two-time LSUS graduate and current employee, Jacqueline Bacud, designed a mural of the Shreveport-Bossier skyline with the Texas Street Bridge.

LSUS officials see this as more than just a new building, but as proof that the school is moving in the right direction.

Executive Director of the LSUS Foundation, Laura Perdue, said, “This is more than just four walls, it’s a symbol of the significant trajectory of this university. It’s a symbol of visionaries like the late Don Davis who made this happen.”