Tanya Davis is a philanthropist and author whose life work is to help transform lives through empowerment and a sense of purpose. Along with her family, Tanya established the William & Mary Davis Foundation, which supports organizations that empower varied communities including Daystar University (Nairobi, Kenya) as well as Fox Valley Christian Action, Young Life, Women at Risk International, Gems of St. Sabina, and Haymarket Center Drug Rehabilitation Center in the Chicago area.  The foundation also supports Purpose by Design, a program Tanya created to provide a robust retreat including mentoring, education and life skills for teen girls from under-resourced communities.  Working with a team of commitment volunteers and partners, Tanya continues to evolve and expand the program, which has served more than 100 young ladies.

Tanya’s community engagement includes working with the Chicago Foundation for Women (West Suburban Giving Circle Co-Chair), to provide grants to local social service charities.  Tanya also serves on the Board of Directors of Metropolitan Family Services, which provides social services in the Chicago area, and is a Board member and Development Chair for Haymarket Center, which assists people with substance abuse disorders.  Previously, Tanya served on the Board of Directors at Daystar University.

Reflecting her passion for living with a strong sense of purpose, Tanya has authored three books:   “Urban Monks and Mystics:  Find Inner Peace Without Joining a Monastery,” “May I Please Speak with My Father?” and “I Don’t Want to Shame my Daddy’s Name.” Tanya holds a Bachelor’s degree in Counseling from DePaul University, a Master’s degree in Writing from Lenoir-Rhyne University.