Gail Davis, Director of Administrative Services at the Chicago Teachers’ Pension Fund (CTPF), received the Chicago Defender’s 2025 Women of Excellence Award. Davis, along with 49 other honorees, was recognized during the awards ceremony on March 21, 2025. She received her award from one of the event's emcees, her daughter Samantha Chatman of ABC 7 Chicago, adding a deeply personal touch to the honor.
“Gail’s dedication and service to CTPF over the past 40 years have been remarkable. Her commitment to our members and her tireless efforts to support our Trustees have had a profound impact on our organization. This award is a well-deserved recognition of her exceptional contributions,” said Carlton W. Lenoir, Sr., Executive Director of CTPF.
Born on the city’s south side and a proud product of Chicago Public Schools, she joined CTPF after completing business school and has remained with the Fund throughout her career. Over a span of four decades, committed to excellence and serving others with diligence and compassion, Davis moved up within the ranks at CTPF.
Davis currently serves as Director of Administrative Services, responsible for supporting the work of CTPF across the organization, serving as the Election Coordinator for the annual CTPF Trustee Elections, supporting the work of the Board of Trustees, and managing member records and imaging.
Davis is an active volunteer with a passion for supporting teens and young adults in underserved communities. She is a member of the Women’s Board of the Chicago Urban League, where she served as scholarship chair, helping to raise thousands of dollars through fundraising initiatives. She also serves on the Board of Directors of New Moms, which provides housing and job training skills for young mothers.
Davis is a proud alumna of Taylor Business Institute, received a certification in Leadership from Northwestern University’s School of Professional Studies, and received the Dale Carnegie Highest Award for Achievement.
Since its inception in 2007, the Women of Excellence Awards and Ceremony has celebrated local Black women who make significant contributions in their respective fields, including business, government, law, the arts, media, and faith. The honorees join a prestigious sisterhood of 800 achievers, the only one of its size and scope in the Chicagoland area.