FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE:
April 2, 2024
Media Contacts:
Victoria Alexis
valexis@dillard.edu
(504) 816-4024
Katherine Nelson
Katherine.Nelson@disney.com
(929) 313-3111
NEW ORLEANS – Today, President Rochelle L. Ford announced that Ayo Davis, president of Disney Branded Television, will deliver the university’s keynote commencement address on Saturday, May 11, 2024.
Davis is president of Disney Branded Television, the unit of The Walt Disney Company division that develops and creates some of the world’s most beloved children and family content for platforms like Disney+, Disney Channel, and Disney Junior. She oversees all aspects of development, production, casting, and business affairs for the group’s expansive slate of live-action, unscripted, and animated entertainment, ranging from preschool hits like “Marvel’s Spidey and his Amazing Friends” and “Superkitties;” to iconic series “The Proud Family: Louder and Prouder,” “Phineas and Ferb,” and “Raven’s Home;” popular franchises “ZOMBIES” and “Descendants;” and global streaming sensation “Percy Jackson and the Olympians.”
“My journey has been profoundly shaped by my Dillard education and the extraordinary DU community that I’m so proud to be a part of,” said Davis. “It’s a deep privilege to join the Class of 2024 for this milestone occasion and I extend my heartfelt appreciation to President Ford and everyone at Dillard for this incredible opportunity.”
With over two decades of experience at The Walt Disney Company, Davis assumed the role of president of Disney Branded Television in 2021. She was previously executive vice president of talent and casting at ABC Entertainment and Disney+, where she contributed to the success of renowned series such as “The Good Doctor,” “Desperate Housewives,” and “black-ish,” while also helping to foster the careers of talented actors like Viola Davis and Eva Longoria.
Davis is actively involved in various organizations. She serves on the board of trustees of Dillard University and previously on the board of directors for the T. Howard Foundation. She is also a Jack and Jill of America Inc. member and has been featured on power lists in top entertainment publications, including The Hollywood Reporter, Variety and Multichannel News.
Her dedication to storytelling, authentic leadership style, and emphasis on mentorship make her a compelling speaker, offering valuable insights into the power of community and supporting the next generation in achieving their aspirations. Davis is a proud alumna of Dillard University, where she earned her Bachelor of Arts degree in communications.
About Dillard University
Dillard University, Louisiana’s oldest historically Black university, is a private four-year liberal arts faith based university. Located in New Orleans, Dillard offers 22 bachelor’s degrees and two certificates in the disciplines of Business, Health and Wellness, the Humanities, Nursing, STEM, and Social Sciences. Its diverse student body is comprised of students from 33 states and 12 countries. Website: www.dillard.edu
About The Walt Disney Company
The Walt Disney Company, with its subsidiaries and affiliates, is a leading diversified international entertainment and media enterprise with three core business segments: Entertainment, Sports, and Experiences. Disney is a Dow 30 company with annual revenues of $88.89 billion in its Fiscal Year 2023.
Follow the Dillard University Commencement homepage for updates.
