From Student Advocate to Industry Leader: George Davis' Journey of Impact in OAMI and Beyond

OAMI alum George Davis, II has helped shape Detroit and the state of Michigan's brightening future through his tireless work in public service and private enterprise. As the Director of Security, Public Affairs, and Real Estate at the Detroit Salt Company (DSC), George is deeply involved in safeguarding this unique industry while advocating for environmental sustainability. A professional miner certified by the U.S. Department of Labor-Mine Safety and Health Administration, George is one of the country's few African American mining executives. His journey to prominence began in Ann Arbor, where his involvement with OAMI set him on a path as a champion for underserved students, community engagement, and the state of Michigan’s vital resources.

Finding the Bridge to Ann Arbor

Born in Ohio, where he lived with his parents on the campus of Wilberforce College, a historically Black university, George moved to Detroit at the age of three. He attended the renowned Cass Technical High School, majoring in Avocational Music. With guidance from his high school counselor, George chose to attend the University of Michigan over acceptances from Howard University and Morehouse College, owing to Michigan’s proximity and academic opportunities.

George Davis, II began his path to industry leader and environmental advocate at OAMI. He is currently the President of the Michigan League of Conservation Voters

“I came to U-M through the Summer Bridge Program with the Comprehensive Studies Program (CSP),” George recalls. “That program helped me to adapt quickly to university life.” George soon immersed himself in various student activities, including student governance with the Michigan Student Assembly, Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Inc. membership, and various musical ensembles.

With OAMI from the Beginning

His involvement with OAMI, then known as the Office of Minority Affairs (OMA), was a key step in his transformation from an engaged student to a campus leader. As a student participant in the Black Action Movement III (BAM III), which advocated for the establishment of OMA, George joined the office in the late 1980s. As a leader in the KCP Program, he coordinated visits for middle school students, organized high school summer programs, and pioneered the College Club Program. George also collaborated closely with Warde Manuel, current University of Michigan Athletic Director, in the Wade McCree Incentive Scholars Program.

“My experience at OAMI taught me the value of working with young people and helping to broaden their cultural horizons,” George reflects. He connected deeply with students through programs like the “G. Davis Show,”—a live talk show covering topics such as college education and cultural adaptation. “We created a space where youth could see themselves as successful college students while learning about the world outside their communities.”

The impact of his efforts extended far beyond those he directly mentored. Many student leaders he worked with have become educators, counselors, and even superintendents, a testament to his lasting influence.

Hosting "talk shows" and facilitating discussions, Davis learned how to connect with young people while being guided by role models in OAMI and the broader campus

Guided by Exemplary Leadership

George credits his personal and professional development to the mentorship he received at OAMI. "I had the privilege of working with leaders like Dr. Charles Moody, the first Vice Provost for Minority Affairs, and Dr. John Matlock, OAMI’s first full-time director. These were the first Black male role models I worked with, and they shaped how I viewed leadership and advocacy." George’s confidence and interpersonal skills grew with the support of leaders such as Barbara Robinson of CSP, Henry Johnson, VP of Student Affairs, and Greg Harden in the Athletic Department.

One of George’s most meaningful experiences was driving civil rights activist Angela Davis to several events on campus. Their conversations, rooted in their shared experiences of Alabama summers, left a lasting impression. “I became confident in working with a wide variety of people from diverse backgrounds,” George asserts. “I realized I could be an impactful leader in multiple arenas—schools, college campuses, and local communities. This would be vital in my work to help restore Detroit.”

A Lifelong Commitment to Public Service

This sense of purpose has permeated all of George’s professional roles, including his tenure with Detroit Mayor Dennis W. Archer, where he led Public Safety and Cultural Affairs. In his current role at DSC, George remains committed to Detroit’s growth and safety, securing mineral rights for the underground mine and managing corporate security.

George’s connection to Michigan endures through his work with the Michigan League of Conservation Voters (MLCV) Board, where he strives to elect environmental champions as president. His dedication to sustainability and environmental justice is key to addressing the needs of affected communities.

Perhaps most remarkable is George’s ability to balance professional responsibilities with community service. Whether coaching football at Cranbrook-Kingswood High School or volunteering as a weather spotter for the National Weather Service, he remains devoted to mentorship and giving back.

Looking Ahead: Supporting OAMI’s Mission

As alumni like George consider how to support OAMI’s mission, he envisions an OAMI alumni group to maintain connections, offer mentorship and advise OAMI leadership. “During my time with OAMI, I developed crucial leadership skills and a commitment to making U-M a welcoming place for students of color,” he says. “My work to help make Detroit a world-class city embodies the same mantra—that I can impact and improve Detroit for everyone. OAMI nurtured that spirit in me.”

To current OAMI students, George offers this advice: “OAMI is a great place to define your path. You will experience and manifest great moments, developing a broader sense of your place in the world by promoting diversity and inclusion. Learning about other cultures and integrating them into the U-M tapestry equips you to be a global leader. If U-M’s brave song is to fly around the world, it will be on the wings of multiculturalism and freedom. These values foster intellectual honesty to teach, serve, and explore the unknown—core goals of our university.”

George Davis’ journey epitomizes dedication to Detroit and the broader principles of community, education, and leadership. His ongoing contributions continue to inspire, highlighting the lasting impact of his time at OAMI.