By Elisabeth Costanzo Stewart
Meet SUNY Broome Alumna Amira Davis – Co-Owner of D5 Consulting LLC
Photo Credit: Matt Ebbers
What is D5 Consulting LLC? After graduating from SUNY Broome and Binghamton University and spending over two decades in Corporate America working in marketing and sales, I took a leap and left to build D5 Consulting LLC with my husband and our children. D5 Consulting is a NYS registered Minority Business Enterprise (MBE) that specializes in providing comprehensive leadership training solutions for businesses, academic institutions, community agencies, and beyond. We offer training modules on a wide variety of topics, all of which are rooted in empowering people to embrace their fullest potential.
What can we do to encourage and support fellow women as they pursue their education and careers? “I truly don’t understand why women feel the need to tear each other down! Interestingly, one of my closest friends and I started a business, Collaborative Connection, that addresses this issue through strategic business planning. Throughout our careers in sales, we were often pitted against each other, but instead of engaging in that behavior, we responded with, “We won’t do that. We work better together!” Everyone benefits if we work collaboratively and share resources and referrals. A phrase that I say all the time is, “If I eat, you eat.”
I also really believe in the practice of sharing the names of people/businesses/services in a room full of opportunity. This simple action is the most basic way to build each other up and foster collaborative connections.”
Who is a public figure (either historical or present day) that has inspired you? What were/are her contributions and achievements?“Recently I’ve been really inspired by the author and motivational speaker Valorie Burton. She is a great speaker with empowering messages that we all can relate to.”
What does it mean to you to be celebrated as a remarkable woman?“I don’t see myself as remarkable, but we as women often don’t give ourselves enough credit. I appreciate being thought of as remarkable. It really is a neat honor!”
Name another remarkable woman of SUNY Broome who inspires you? “Dr. Carol A. Ross-Scott! My husband Sammy came home one day from teaching at the College and said, “There’s this new woman on campus, and I really want you to meet her.” When I finally met her, I immediately understood why Sammy wanted us to connect. Dr Ross-Scott has the best vibe! It’s so evident that she loves the students and cares about their well-being and success.
Interestingly, Carol reminds me so much of one of my mom’s very best friends, whom I also really admire. There is something about their spirit and genuine kindness.”
