Roderick Davis
By Julia Weeden
Roderick Davis has worked in student affairs for nearly a decade. He began his career as a housing professional in the Jackson area and now serves as the assistant director of Fraternity and Sorority Life at Mississippi State University.
Davis graduated from MSU in 2016 with a bachelor’s degree in kinesiology. While he initially planned to attend physical therapy school, he discovered a passion for working with college students and creating spaces where they can thrive. This led him to pursue advanced degrees and professional opportunities in student affairs.
Davis would go on to earn a Master of Science in Student Affairs Administration from Arkansas Tech University, and, in 2024, received his Doctor of Education in Student Affairs Administration from the University of Southern Mississippi.
Davis’s student affairs journey started as an overnight receptionist at Jackson State University before transitioning to the role of residence life coordinator at Belhaven University. He later returned to JSU as a community director before returning to MSU in June 2022 as a community director in the Office of Housing and Residence Life, overseeing Magnolia, Oak and Moseley Halls. In January 2023, he transitioned to the Office of Fraternity and Sorority Life as assistant director of fraternity and sorority life, where he also advises the National Pan-hellenic Council and the United Greek Council.
When asked why he wanted to pursue a career in student affairs, he cited his own experience being involved on campus as an undergraduate student.
“I felt a need to create space for my peers, although I was one of them,” said Davis. “I was genuinely happy when I saw people around me happy. I love to serve, and service is my number one thing.”
When asked how he shapes the student experience through his role, Davis reflected on the balance he tries to maintain between honoring the past and preparing for the future.
“I like to stay informed about current trends in student affairs, and when I combine that knowledge with our campus traditions, I’m able to serve as a middle ground and a voice for students in all areas of campus life,” he said.
For Davis, the work of student affairs goes beyond programs or events — it’s about shaping lives.
“I believe every student who graduates high school should attend college, and student affairs helps them discover who they are,” Davis said. “It’s the institution’s responsibility to foster a sense of belonging for those students, and that’s exactly what I love to do.”
Davis also believes that anyone can benefit from exploring a career in student affairs or even just taking a few courses in the field.
“Student affairs isn’t just a name — it’s a large family,” he said. “It’s the background in all professions, and the skills you gain in this field are essential in any career.”