Faith, family, energy and determination drive SC State junior Tavonte Davis

While living with multiple sclerosis, the Myrtle Beach resident channels optimism into leadership and song.

ORANGEBURG, S.C. – When Tavonte Davis walks into a room, his broad grin is the first thing people notice. That smile never fades, his laughter is unmistakable, and his voice rings out, full of faith and feeling.

A junior psychology major at South Carolina State University, Davis is as dedicated to serving others as he is to his studies. As SC State’s “Mister United Voices in Christ,” he is an integral part of the university’s gospel choir, but his story goes far beyond music. It’s one of resilience, faith and gratitude.

At just 16, Davis was diagnosed with multiple sclerosis (MS), a disease that affects the nervous system and can disrupt everything from balance to vision to mobility. But instead of slowing down, he turned his diagnosis into motivation.

“I grew up in church,” he said. “So, when I found out about the MS, I decided to treat it like a message, a reminder that I still have a purpose. I don’t let it control me. I control how I respond to it. I just really look at MS as more of my success.”

That mindset is grounded in faith.

“We don’t know our comings, and we don’t know our goings,” Davis said. “So, while I’m here, I want to use my time to show people that no matter what’s happening, you can still be successful.

“In spite of all my circumstance, in spite of my health issues, I don't let that be the reason to stop me from being successful,” he said. “Don't let that be the reason to stop you from joining this organization or following your dreams.”

A Mother’s strength and a son’s determination

Davis credits his perseverance to his mother, who raised him in a single-parent home in Myrtle Beach.

“I watched my mom work so hard to keep us going,” he said. “She’s my biggest motivation. I want to give back to her for all she’s done.”

Being the first in his family to attend college has only deepened that drive. Davis said he chose SC State after meeting recruiters who saw potential in him, not just numbers on a page.

“In high school, I missed a lot of time because of my health,” he said. “But when I met people from SC State, they told me this was a place that gives you a reset. They said, ‘Come here. We’ll meet you where you are.’ That meant a lot.”

A leader who sings with purpose

Since arriving on campus, Davis has found his place in the SC State community. He’s a member of 101 Black Men and two fraternities, Phi Mu Alpha Sinfonia, a music fraternity, and Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity Inc., a social organization. He sings in both the SC State Concert Choir and United Voices in Christ, using music as both expression and therapy.

“Music always been my type of counseling, always been my type of healing,” he said. “Whether I’m singing something spiritual or some encouraging music, it reminds me that there’s always hope. Trouble doesn’t last always.”

Through those groups, Davis has found a community that supports him in ways he never expected.

“You never really know what people are going through. Nowadays with my generation, we don't like to say much,” he said. “We don't like to be unworthy, and we try to keep it to ourselves, throw it away and then just be like, okay, just push on.

“But sometimes we have to realize we need to lean on somebody,” he said. “I know everybody's story is different, so it’s not for everybody, but in each organization, I have some people I can go to because most of these organizations really provide a second family for you. There are people who can actually come to me and say, ‘I got you.’”

Growing in confidence and character

College hasn’t been without challenges. Davis admits that finding balance between academics, health and campus involvement takes effort.

“When I got to SC State, I knew I had to grow academically and personally,” he said. “Now, I’ve learned how to stay on top of my work and manage my time. I’m proud of that progress.”

He says SC State’s nurturing yet demanding environment has been key to his success.

“SC State doesn’t just let you slide,” Davis said. “If you start to fall off, someone’s going to pull you aside and say, ‘What’s going on? We know you can do better.’ They care enough to correct you, and that’s love.”

That same spirit of gratitude led Davis to spend his summer interning with SC State’s Division of University Advancement, where he made calls to alumni and donors to thank them for supporting the university.

Davis said he enjoyed the experience and was grateful for the chance to thank alumni and donors personally. He said it felt meaningful to let them know their support makes a real difference for students like him.

Keeping his eyes on what’s next

Davis hopes to continue his education after earning his bachelor’s degree. He plans to pursue a master’s in education or neuropsychology, with dreams of becoming either a school counselor or a neuropsychologist who works with patients facing neurological illnesses.

“I want to help people who deal with what I’ve gone through,” he said. “Sometimes you just need someone who understands, someone who’s been there.”

For now, Davis is focused on spreading encouragement through his leadership and his music. Whether it’s on stage with the choir or walking across campus, he continues to inspire others through his joy and determination.

“This is a loving environment. It’s also a teaching environment. It’s a disciplined environment. SC State gives me blessing left and right, as in blessings I never thought I could see,” he said. “It helps me grow.

“It reminds me that I am a loyal son. I am that Bulldog.”