Black History Month, observed each February, is a time to celebrate the achievements and lasting contributions of African Americans throughout history.
This February, United Way of Central Alabama (UWCA) is commemorating Black History Month by featuring voices from the J. Mason Davis Leadership Society (JMDLS), a UWCA donor network made up of local African American community leaders and changemakers.
La Toya Haskins Cathey, Brasfield & Gorrie Senior Benefits Administrator at
Q: What inspired you to join the J. Mason Davis Leadership Society, and what does being part of this network mean to you personally?
A: In 2019, I learned about the first African American chair of UWCA’s Annual Campaign and how he brought together other African American leaders committed to philanthropy, leadership and service right here in my city. That was powerful to me as I work for a company that, year after year, gives so freely to others through United Way and the J. Mason Davis Leadership Society. It is unity that makes me believe the work matters. I was taught I can do anything, but together we can do many things.
Q: Is there a Black leader in your life or in history who shaped how you approach leadership and service?
A: There are many, but my uncle and Hall of Fame author James Jim Haskins would be at the top. His books about people who look like me and shaped our world were shared with me at a young age and placed in libraries for others to learn more about inventions, service and leadership in the United States and to feel proud.
Chip Bivins, University of Alabama System Chief Audit and Compliance Officer
Q: What inspired you to join the J. Mason Davis Leadership Society, and what does being part of this network mean to you personally?
A: The JMDLS provides an opportunity for my family and me to support United Way’s service to our community. It also honors the ongoing legacy of Mr. J. Mason Davis and acknowledges his contribution to United Way and our community.
Q: Is there a Black leader in your life or in history who shaped how you approach leadership and service?
A: Actually, Mr. Davis himself. He served on the Board of Directors for the company for which I served as an officer. He always had time to provide counsel and guidance to those around him, including me. He exemplifies the practice of walking with kings but not losing the common touch.
Q: Can you share a moment or experience through JMDLS that reinforced why this work matters to you?
A: I am impressed at the engagement of young professionals through JMDLS. They commit financial resources as well as time.
Shakeitha Tatum, United Way of Central Alabama Vice President of Agency Relations
Q: What inspired you to join the J. Mason Davis Leadership Society, and what does being part of this network mean to you personally?
A: I was inspired to join the J. Mason Davis Leadership Society because it represents leadership rooted in service, purpose and community — values that have shaped both my personal and professional journey. Throughout my work at United Way of Central Alabama, I have seen how intentional leadership and collective generosity can truly change lives. Being part of this network means standing alongside leaders who are deeply committed to lifting our community and using their voices, resources and influence for good. For me, it is not just about giving. It is about belonging to a community that believes in leading with heart, accountability and a shared responsibility to create lasting change for Central Alabama.
Q: Is there a Black leader in your life or in history who shaped how you approach leadership and service?
A: There are many Black leaders who have shaped how I approach leadership and service, but two stand out most clearly for me. Sojourner Truth inspires me because of her courage, resilience and unwavering commitment to justice. Born into slavery, she overcame extraordinary barriers and dedicated her life to advocating for the rights and dignity of women and Black Americans. Her life reminds me that leadership is about using your voice — even when it is difficult — to stand for what is right, and to create space for others.
Secondly, Barack Obama, the 44th President of the United States. Being able to live through that moment in history and to witness his second inauguration in person alongside my family is something I will cherish forever. It was more than a ceremony. It was a powerful reminder that progress is possible and that representation truly matters. That experience strengthened my belief in leading with purpose, integrity and hope. It showed me the importance of paving the way for those who come after us and using leadership not just to break barriers but to create pathways, opportunity and inspiration for future generations. Those lessons continue to shape how I lead and serve today.
Q: Can you share a moment or experience through JMDLS that reinforced why this work matters to you?
A: One of the most meaningful experiences for me was having the opportunity to meet Mr. J. Mason Davis in person, even before the Leadership Society officially launched. Hearing him share firsthand the challenges he faced and the barriers he broke through as a trailblazer in our community was incredibly moving. His humility, strength and lifelong commitment to justice and equity left a lasting impression on me.
That moment reinforced for me that being part of the J. Mason Davis Leadership Society is about honoring a legacy. It is about standing on the shoulders of those who came before us and doing our part to move the work forward. It affirmed my commitment to leading with integrity, creating access for others and ensuring that the next generation has even more doors open than the last.
James Mathews, Thompson Tractor Company Continuous Improvement Project Manager
Q: What inspired you to join the J. Mason Davis Leadership Society, and what does being part of this network mean to you personally?
A: I was inspired by the fact that an affinity group of this nature existed locally to bring together others who were just as passionate about going beyond their monetary donation to impact our community. Being part of the J. Mason Davis Leadership Society has created a ready-made community impact family for me that I can engage with consistently to make an ongoing impact across our local community.
Q: Is there a Black leader in your life or in history who shaped how you approach leadership and service?
A: My parents have truly shaped how I approach leadership and service by teaching and showing me how to live out a life approach of “We are blessed to bless others.”
Q: Can you share a moment or experience through JMDLS that reinforced why this work matters to you?
A: Two years ago, Mr. Mason attended our Day of Mentoring activity at the A.G. Gaston Boys and Girls Club, and I was unexpectedly asked to escort him through the circuit of activity stations with the kids. I was amazed at how, even though everyone was there for an organization named after him, his focus was on being relatable and using each interaction as a quick life skills teaching moment with every child he met. Those moments reminded me how those of us who make up JMDLS can serve as a source of positive impact at any given moment for someone in our community.