DANVILLE — The Danville Noon Kiwanis Club recognizes Terri Davis for her historic leadership as the first Black woman to serve as president of the organization, a milestone she achieved during her term in 2022-2023.
According to a release from the Kiwanis, “while her presidency is not recent, the celebration of 200 years of African American Influence in Vermilion County seems an appropriate time to celebrate the impact of her leadership which continues to be felt throughout the club and the broader Danville community. Terri Davis’s presidency represents an important chapter in the history of Danville Noon Kiwanis. Her election expanded representation within the club’s leadership and demonstrated the organization’s commitment to inclusion and progress.’’
Davis assumed leadership when service organizations across the nation were continuing to adapt to the challenges and changing realities brought about by the COVID-19 pandemic. During her term, she guided the club in maintaining its service commitments and preserving key programs that supported children and families throughout the community.
A defining achievement of her administration was the success of the club’s Annual Kiwanis Pancake and Sausage Day. The fundraiser, a long-standing tradition and one of the organization’s primary charitable events, raised more than $21,000 for local youth-focused initiatives and children’s programs. The event’s success reinforced the club’s ability to meet community needs while sustaining its charitable mission.
“Terri Davis’s leadership was both meaningful and impactful,” said current member Heather McArty. “We are grateful for the example she set and the doors she helped open. It’s important for us to take time to recognize and celebrate those contributions.”
The Danville Noon Kiwanis Club remains committed to building on this legacy by fostering leadership that reflects and serves the entire community.
The Club meets from noon to 1 p.m. on the second and fourth Tuesdays of each month at the Danville Public Library.