As development manager for the nonprofit National Pediatric Cancer Foundation (NPCF), Lyndra Davis uses the knowledge she gained at Saint Leo University to raise critical funds for pediatric cancer research. The foundation’s mission is to find less toxic, more effective treatments for the 43 children diagnosed with cancer each day. 

Davis is responsible for raising funds and building relationships with corporate sponsors for NPCF’s “Fishing Funds the Cure” tournaments. 

“I definitely think my sport business degree, with courses in finance, marketing, and the general business classes, really prepared me for my career,” Davis said.

While completing her undergraduate degree in sport business at Saint Leo, Davis took an internship with NPCF and was soon offered a full-time position.

Davis, a former college volleyball player and coach, has always had a passion for sports. While she’s no longer competing on the court, she now channels that competitive drive into securing funding for NPCF, a vital part of working in the nonprofit world.

“During my internship, I solicited silent auction items for their signature events, Tampa Fashion Funds the Cure and Sarasota Fishing Funds the Cure,” Davis said.

She now works year-round seeking sponsorships, both individual and corporate, for the tournaments. “I seek sponsorships, build relationships, run committee meetings, and coordinate with my events team to ensure the logistics of each tournament run smoothly,” she added. 

NPCF currently hosts three fishing tournaments: one in St. Petersburg, FL, which has been running for more than 25 years; another in Sarasota, FL; and this year, they are adding a summer tournament in Puerto Rico.

Her leadership training grew at Saint Leo, helping prepare her for her job. “I built strong relationships with my professors, who recognized my work ethic and leadership in class, and entrusted me with leading some group projects. I respected them for their trust and mentorship in helping me grow both personally and academically,” Davis said. It is one of the things she believes makes Saint Leo special.

“To students exploring college options, I would say choose a school with smaller class sizes where you can build personal relationships with your professors. Take full advantage of your time at Saint Leo University. Learn everything you can, use the tools you’re given, and make conversations with your professors. Time flies, so make it count.”