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When Errin Davis ’18 first visited Salem State University, she immediately felt a sense of clarity. “I remember walking through campus and thinking, I can see myself here,” she says.
A first-generation college student born to immigrant parents with roots in Trinidad and Tabago, Davis made the most of every opportunity available to her. She pursued a bachelor of business administration with a focus on entrepreneurial studies, while also completing minors in public policy, public administration and economics. Although she initially considered hospitality and event planning, her interests quickly evolved. “Salem State gave me the space to explore and figure out what I cared about.”
Her time on campus was defined by both leadership and initiative. Davis founded and led the Student Association for Innovation and Leadership (SAIL), creating opportunities for student entrepreneurs, and played an active role in the Multicultural Student Association. At the same time, she balanced multiple jobs, gaining real-world experience alongside her studies. “I was always working and building something. That drive really grew at Salem State.”
From Campus to Capitol Hill
Davis credits much of her growth to the relationships she built with faculty and staff. While her degree was in business, she found strong mentorship in the political science department. “Professors Cynthia Lynch and Jennifer Jackman saw something in me that I didn’t see in myself,” she recalls. “They pushed me into leadership roles and helped me believe I belonged in those spaces.”
She was a recipient of the Rich Levy Congressional Internship Program, a funded opportunity through the political science department. The program made it possible for her to pursue a spot in Washington, D.C,. where she interned with the Caucus on Black Women & Girls in the office of Congresswoman Bonnie Watson Coleman.
She went on to build experience across political and advocacy, working with leaders including Congresswoman Ayanna Pressley and State Senator Liz Miranda. Her broader experience also includes contributions to organizations such as the Center for Public Leadership at Harvard Kennedy School and Emerge Massachusetts.
Leaping into Entrepreneurship
After several years working across government, campaigns and public sector roles, Davis began to rethink what she wanted her long-term impact to look like. That reflection led her to make a bold shift.
Together with her husband, Anthony Davis, Jr., she co-founded The Davis System, a social impact consulting firm focused on campaigns, events and community engagement. The transition came with uncertainty, but also a strong sense of purpose. “Starting the business was one of the biggest risks I’ve taken.” Now serving as chief operating officer, Davis leads operations and logistics for large-scale initiatives, from community events to political campaigns.
Her leadership is grounded in her upbringing and values. As the daughter of a union worker, she was exposed early to advocacy and collective action. “I’ve always had a desire to help people, especially those facing inequities. Everything I’ve done, including my time at Salem State, has built on that foundation.”
Salem State became part of that journey in a meaningful way. “Salem State was our first client. It reminded me that the community that shaped me is still part of my story.”
Recognition and Reflection
Davis’ contributions have been widely recognized. In 2024, she was named to Salem State’s 40 Under 40 and honored for her impact on the Massachusetts Caribbean community. She and her husband were also formally honored through Living History of Color.
Her connection to Salem State continues to grow through teaching and mentoring students. “Salem State poured so much into me, and now I get to pour back into the next generation.”
For current students, her advice reflects the lessons that shaped her own path. “Build a real relationship with at least one faculty member. That connection can follow you long after you graduate and open doors you didn’t expect.”
From her first campus visit to her career in leadership and entrepreneurship, Davis’ journey reflects the opportunities, support and community that define Salem State University. “I love my Viking community. It’s always going to be part of who I am.”