Cultivating a Network of Black Leaders Driving Community Change
The J. Mason Davis Leadership Society is a network of Black leaders and philanthropists who support United Way of Central Alabama’s work to strengthen communities across Central Alabama. Through giving, service and meaningful connections, members come together to create lasting community impact and help advance a tradition of Black leadership and philanthropy.
The J. Mason Davis Leadership Society (JMDLS) brings together African American professionals, business leaders and changemakers who believe in the power of philanthropy, volunteerism and advocacy to improve lives across Central Alabama.
Named in honor of legendary Birmingham civil rights attorney and community leader J. Mason Davis, the Society celebrates a legacy of leadership while inspiring today’s leaders to create opportunities for future generations.
Whether mentoring students, advocating for stronger communities or investing in United Way’s work, JMDLS members share one belief: when we lead together, we create lasting change.
Why Join the J. Mason Davis Leadership Society?
Membership offers opportunities to connect with other community leaders, participate in exclusive events, engage in service and make a collective investment in the issues affecting Central Alabama.
- Build meaningful connections with business and community leaders.
- Participate in exclusive events and experiences throughout the year.
- Support meaningful community impact through United Way.
- Help strengthen the next generation of Black philanthropic leadership.
See the J. Mason Davis Leadership Society in Action
Hear from members about the relationships, leadership and community impact that make the Society special.
J. Mason Davis Society Impact
JMDLS proudly boasts a membership of more than 500 active members.
JMDLS members have collectively donated more than $1.4 million to Central Alabama communities.
Honoring a Legacy of Leadership
J. Mason Davis and the Power of Community Impact
Mr. J. Mason Davis was one of Birmingham’s most esteemed attorneys, a dedicated community leader and a lifelong advocate for civil rights. His unwavering commitment to justice and service has made a lasting impact on both his profession and the broader community.
As the first African American Chairman of the Board for United Way of Central Alabama, he played a pivotal role in advancing health and human service initiatives, championing equity and fostering positive change.
2026 J. Mason Davis Leadership Steering Committee
Ken Davis
Regions Bank
Steering Committee Chair
Cleo Crawford
Regions Bank
James Mathews
Thompson Tractor Supply
Ike Matthews
Spire Energy
Jimmie Washington
Alabama Power Company
Val Williams
Blue Cross and Blue Shield of Alabama
Jasmine Wright
Protective Life
J. Mason Davis Leadership Society Staff
J. Mason Davis Society Membership Information Form
Latest J. Mason Davis Leadership Society News
J. Mason Davis Leadership Society Unites in Support of Wraparound Services
Year after year, United Way of Central Alabama’s (UWCA) J. Mason Davis Leadership Society (JMDLS) works to create lasting community
Book Drive Extends J. Mason Davis’s Love of Learning and Literacy
Members of United Way of Central Alabama’s (UWCA) J. Mason Davis Leadership Society recently honored the Society’s namesake by collecting
Day of Mentoring Helps Students Prepare for the Future
The J. Mason Davis Leadership Society (JMDSL) recently held its annual Day of Mentoring event at the Boys & Girls Club of Central Alabama. The day featured a series of workshops designed to inspire, educate and empower the next generation of leaders.