Brian L. Davis, Ph. D., was the president and CEO of the Georgia Aquarium in Atlanta. Brian dedicated his life to education and environmental stewardship, leaving an indelible imprint on the fields of education, marine biology, and the zoo and aquarium community. He was a beautifully compassionate person who was a lifelong learner and always pushed the boundaries of what was possible.
An inspiring trailblazer, Brian was the first Black CEO of an aquarium and was the first Black chairman of the Association of Zoos and Aquariums board. He was dedicated to creating more inclusive, caring and diverse spaces and opportunities in marine science.
As a former teacher and administrator in the Cobb County school system in Georgia, Brian was a fierce advocate for public education. He also served as an adjunct professor at the College of Education at Georgia State University and Mercer University.
Under Brian’s leadership, the Georgia Aquarium became the first aquarium designated as a Certified Autism Center, creating more welcoming opportunities for those with sensory sensitivities. The Atlanta Journal-Constitution named the aquarium a Top Workplace and awarded it the DEI Award.
The Dr. Brian L. Davis Marine Biology, Conservation, and Education Scholarship Fund, sponsored by Georgia Aquarium, honors Brian’s legacy by awarding a $20,000 scholarship, payable over four years ($5,000 per year), to a high school senior pursuing an undergraduate degree in the fields of marine biology, conservation or science education.
