Dr. Davis will begin December 1, bringing more than 15 years of experience in higher education and philanthropy

KERRVILLE, Texas — Schreiner University has appointed Arlene B. Davis, Ph.D., as its new vice president of advancement, effective December 1, 2026. Davis brings more than 15 years of experience in higher education and philanthropy, with a record of building donor relationships, leading fundraising campaigns and expanding resources for students.

At Schreiner, Davis will partner with President Charlie McCormick, university leadership and supporters to advance the university’s 2030 vision, with an emphasis on growing philanthropic support for student scholarships and strategic priorities.

“We are delighted to welcome Dr. Davis to Schreiner University. She brings a wealth of experience, sound judgment, and a demonstrated commitment to the kind of thoughtful, collaborative leadership that is so important to our institution. As Schreiner continues to grow and evolve, we need leaders who understand that effective administration is not simply about managing resources and operations, but about creating the conditions in which our students, faculty, and staff can thrive. I am confident that Dr. Davis will make immediate and lasting contributions to our University.”

As senior director of development at the University of Arkansas for Medical Sciences, Davis helped lead a collaborative fundraising effort that generated $30 million in its first year during the COVID-19 pandemic, reaching 25% of the capital campaign’s goal.

Previously, as associate dean of advancement and development at Lurleen B. Wallace Community College, she led the unification of two institutional foundations into a single program valued at more than $10 million. She also launched an internal giving campaign that achieved 96% employee participation.

Her experience includes major and planned gifts, annual and capital campaigns, endowments, grants and advancement operations.

“Schreiner’s clear vision for 2030 and its commitment to student success, personalized education and social mobility are what drew me to this opportunity,” Davis said. “I look forward to partnering with President McCormick, the cabinet and the Hill Country community to expand donor support for scholarships and connect Schreiner’s strategic priorities with meaningful opportunities for philanthropy.”

Davis holds a doctorate in industrial and organizational psychology and a Master of Business Administration from Capella University, a Master of Science from the University of West Alabama and undergraduate degrees from Troy University. She also holds the Certified Fund Raising Executive credential.

Her career in advancement began at Lurleen B. Wallace Community College, where she moved from a tenured faculty position into foundation and advancement leadership.