Deshundra Davis

I attribute my success to understanding that my value comes from within me, not from any job title or company. When I was laid off from International Paper after 17 years, I went through the seven stages of grief, but working with LHH career services really built me up and reminded me of exactly who I am and who I can be. They helped me understand that IP didn't determine my value - it was me and my spirit and my heart and what I wanted to get out of life. I learned that the job didn't define me, I defined the job. All that value and experience and thoughts are within me, I'm just channeling it in a different way in a new company. I also credit my dual degree from Mississippi State University, which gives me the ability to translate technical requirements into business value for partners. Throughout my career, I've focused on building trust between IT and the business, making sure they trust the data's good and that the project team is capable and thorough. Even when projects feel tough and challenging and I want to give up, I look at the certificates and trophies on my wall from past successes and I'm reminded to keep going, that it's all for a reason. I've also invested heavily in my own development through leadership programs like Leadership Memphis, New Memphis Institute, and Nexus, because you never know what moment you need to pull a certain tool out of your toolbox, and you need to be prepared.

You can have a successful career and having the ability to pivot as her transition after being laid off from International Paper, where she worked for 17 years in various IT roles. She ultimately accepted a position as Senior Manager of Application Support at RS Americas, where she focuses on disaster recovery and business continuity planning across global applications.

You can have a successful career in any male dominated field.

Being in a new state for the last 2 months and looking to network here in Texas.

I'm very passionate about making a difference in the lives of other young ladies, which is why I was heavily involved in mentoring programs when I lived in Memphis and am now looking to join new mentoring events here in Texas. I'm a huge advocate for building yourself up and equipping yourself with the tools that you need, because you never know what moment you need to pull a certain tool out of your toolbox. I believe strongly in diversity and inclusion - I'm already partnering with people at my new company to create an African American employee resource group, and I'm working to influence breaking out into many circles around Hispanics, women, and African Americans so everyone feels like they have that safe space to really share, network, and find someone for mentoring and growth and development. In my personal life, I find a lot of meaning in community and fellowship. I'm an avid sports mom for my 11-year-old daughter and 9-year-old son, involved in the PTA, and help out with my HOA for community events. I also find solace and meaning in music, particularly Taylor Swift's lyrics, which help me contemplate life. I value being part of supportive, judgment-free communities where women empower women.