Rachel Davis Appointed Interim Senior Associate Vice President for Finance at Grambling State
Grambling State University has appointed Rachel D. Davis as Interim Senior Associate Vice President for Finance. A respected member of the university’s leadership team and proud alumna, Davis brings more than 14 years of experience in audit, accounting, and risk management to the role. This transition follows the departure of Quaneshia Hamms, Interim Vice President for Finance. Grambling State President Martin Lemelle, Jr., expressed gratitude for Hamms’ contributions and longstanding commitment to the institution.
“I have had the privilege of working with Quaneshia during three pivotal moments in our respective careers,” said Lemelle. “Her contributions to Grambling State have been deeply valued, and I extend my sincere gratitude for her service and dedication.”
Davis most recently served as Director of Internal Audit, where she led the resolution of longstanding audit findings, strengthened compliance systems, and worked closely with departments to enhance financial accountability. Her professional record spans oversight of $130 million in corporate budgets, $70 million in monthly expenses, and leadership of federal fraud investigations resulting in $1.9 million in recoveries.
“I have full confidence in Rachel’s ability to lead with integrity, precision, and a deep understanding of the university’s financial landscape,” Lemelle continued. “Her appointment reflects not only her exceptional talent, but also our ongoing commitment to developing and promoting leaders from within. It’s always a proud moment when we can elevate individuals who know our mission, our people, and our path forward.”
Her professional experience includes roles in both the public and private sectors, including service as a Fraud Investigator with Qlarant and as a Senior Accountant for Driveline Retail Merchandising. In these roles, she managed multimillion-dollar budgets, conducted detailed financial analyses, implemented fraud prevention protocols, and led internal audits. She has managed $130 million in annual budgets, overseen $70 million in monthly expenses, and led fraud investigations resulting in $1.9 million in recoveries. Her work has been recognized for reducing accounts payable aging by 57%, eliminating redundant processes, and improving reporting structures.
“I am honored to step into the Interim Senior Associate Vice President for Finance role at my alma mater—a place that laid the foundation for my academic and professional growth,” said Davis. “This is more than just a new title; it’s a full-circle moment that reflects years of hard work, growth, and purpose.
As a first-generation college graduate, I hope my journey inspires others to pursue excellence, stay grounded in their values, and never lose sight of their why.”
Davis holds degrees in Computer Information Systems and Criminal Justice from Grambling State University, as well as an MBA in Accounting from Texas Woman’s University. A Certified Fraud Examiner and respected leader in internal audit and financial governance, she is deeply invested in advancing fiscal practices that support student success and institutional resilience.
As Grambling State prepares to launch a national search for Chief Financial Officer, Davis’s leadership will provide both momentum and assurance—reinforcing the value of developing talent who understand the mission, culture, and future of the university.