The People of CSU: Interim Associate Director of Marketing Robin Davis

Above: Robin Davis (left) with the Central State University Dancing Belles.

Robin Davis has been a staple at Central State University for over seven years, but her journey began as a Marauder. Davis graduated in 2016 with a degree in Communications and spent time as a radio personality before returning to work at her alma mater.  

Image

Davis recently sat down with Alissa Paolella, communications manager, for a Q&A on her background and love for Central State. It has been lightly edited.  

Q: Tell me about your background and experience.  

A: After leaving radio as a weekend personality on Hot 102.9 in Dayton, Ohio, I’ve had the opportunity to work in some form of Marketing here at Central State University for over seven years under Institutional Advancement. My educational background includes an associate degree in Radio and Television (International College of Broadcasting), a bachelor's degree in Communications (Central State University), and a Master of Business Administration (Texas Southern University), and I was recently accepted into the online Higher Education Leadership Doctoral program at Clark Atlanta University. I also have been allowed the opportunity to be the auxiliary coordinator of the Invincible Marching Marauders, and also an adjunct professor here on campus. 

Q: Where did you grow up?  

A: Born and raised in Dayton, Ohio. My parents are from Gary, Indiana.  

Q: What years did you attend CSU?  

A: I started as a freshman here at Central State University in 2005. As life can take a turn, I had my son in 2008, who is now 15 years old. During the beginning stages of his life, I took a break to raise him. I returned to CSU in 2014 and completed my degree in 2016. 

Q: In what extracurriculars did you participate? Can you share a brief story of an important moment from your time as a student?  

A: While a student here at CSU, I was a part of the Ultimate Treasures flag unit of the Invincible Marching Marauders. In 2007, I was given the opportunity to be captain of the team. 

Q: What drew you to Central State?  

A: I originally wanted to attend Clark Atlanta University located in Atlanta, Georgia. Due to living in Dayton, my mother felt it would be a great opportunity to attend a local HBCU that was close to home. My mother was absolutely right! I wouldn’t change anything about my experience here at CSU. I have friends that have turned into family, and as an employee, I have colleagues that have turned into family as well. 

Q: Why did you want to attend an HBCU, and what do you love about working here?  

A: I wanted to attend an HBCU because I wanted to feel like I belonged. I wanted to be a part of an HBCU band and have that family away from home that I could keep forever, and I got just that.  

Attending an HBCU, I was able to get the education that I desired to work in the field that I’m in today.

Working at my alma mater, I’m able to pour into the student body the jewels that were poured into me as a student. I also love that I can market my alma mater to be seen in different cities, states, and events. 

Q: What observations have you made about Central State’s culture or the feeling on campus?  

A: The observations that I have made about CSU is that we are a family-oriented University. As faculty, staff, and alumni, we have a mission to pour into our students and each other, which helps elevate our University. 

Image

Q: What do you think sets Central State apart from other HBCUs?  

A: To be the only public 1890 Land-Grant Institution in the state of Ohio that derived from another HBCU in 1887 is a huge accomplishment. The majority of HBCUs are located in the south, which also sets us apart from everyone else. 

Q: What positions have you held at Central State?   

A: I started here as an employee at CSU in September 2016. This was just four months after graduating from CSU. During my time here, I have held roles such as administrative assistant, administrative coordinator, and interim special assistant. I’m currently the interim associate director of Marketing, an adjunct professor, and auxiliary coordinator to the Ultimate Treasures and Dancing Belles of the Invincible Marching Marauders. 

Q: What do you like to do outside of work?  

A: My hobbies are traveling and spending time with my loved ones. I’m also a member of Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Incorporated, which allows me to spend time with my sorority sisters as well.