Len L. Davis is being described by his colleagues at SUNY Old Westbury as having a great sense of humor and passion for the school, as they collectively mourn his recent death. Davis had served the OW community as its Senior Vice President for Business & Finance and Chief Financial Officer for over 20 years and had just retired in June. The news of his passing came in the form of a letter to the OW community on April 11, 2022, by President Tim Sams who wrote, “It is with great sadness that I report to you today the passing of Mr. Davis… Len was lost unexpectedly after being hospitalized last week following a heart attack.” Shocked and grief-stricken, colleagues had only nice things to say about Davis.
Dr. Duncan Quarless, Provost and Senior Vice President for Academic Affairs, had the opportunity to collaborate with Davis over the course of many years through the Panthers Pride Homecomings, as well as other co-curricular programming. “Mr. Davis was a bulwark of the College,” said Quarless. “He was firm on matters concerning the fiscal stability of the institution, but he was also generous with his time, effort, and resources to support students and to advance the mission of the college – one of its greatest champions. He was a consummate professional.”
Usama M. Shaikh, Vice President of Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion at OW, said he worked with Davis through various roles at OW. Through those rolls, Shaikh was able to serve with Davis on several committees and work on projects together including the renovation of the Interfaith Center in the Student Union, and updating OW residence halls. Shaikh described Davis as funny, caring, passionate, and a religious man who cared for the OW community and its students. “I believe we lost a great supporter and cheerleader of Old Westbury. While I was aware of him having some health issues, the news of his passing came as a shock. I will always remember the larger-than-life personality that Len had which was often showcased by his very colorful collection of ties and suspenders.”
President Sams in his letter said Davis’ was a person who members of the OW community found to be caring and fun as well as an advocate of hard work for the school. President Sams said Davis was known for, “His infectious energy, and his smile. With a wry sense of humor, he went about his work diligently, demanding excellence from all who were around him and giving it of himself at the same time.”
Shaikh echoed the President’s words on Davis’ humor as well as his dedication to OW adding, “I truly enjoyed working with Len. He had a great sense of humor and was passionate about Old Westbury’s success. While most people only got to see the ‘business’ side of Len, I was lucky to be able to witness how he genuinely cared for the OW campus community, especially the students.”
Quarless added, “I am struck with a deep sadness at his death, especially as I recall conversations about what was to be the next chapter of his life in retirement. However, I am very grateful for the times we shared, including times of laughter and spiritual encouragement. I am happy to say that my last face-to-face with him was on the occasion of his retirement dinner where we laughed about some of our experiences.”
Quarless summed up his colleague’s collective thoughts by saying, “The college was well served during his tenure, and I feel the void of one that was my friend. My thoughts and prayers are with his family and other friends who mourn his passing.”
