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Gilbert Davidson Joins Center for Leadership Ethics Advisory Board

Today
Gilbert Davidson

The Center for Leadership Ethics (CLE) at the University of Arizona Eller College of Management is pleased to announce that Gilbert Davidson, town manager of Prescott Valley and proud University of Arizona alumnus, has joined its Advisory Board. Davidson brings more than two decades of leadership experience in public administration and a deep commitment to ethical governance.

Davidson currently serves as Town Manager of Prescott Valley, where he oversees the daily operations of municipal government. His distinguished career includes serving as town manager for Marana and Willcox, as well as his appointment as chief operating officer for the State of Arizona, where he worked with 35 state agencies to improve statewide operations and service delivery.

A three-time Wildcat, Davidson earned two bachelor’s degrees in Business Administration and Public Administration from the University of Arizona in 1998, followed by his Master of Public Administration (MPA) from the Eller College of Management in 2004. He is a credentialed manager with the International City/County Management Association and a graduate of the Senior Executives in State and Local Government program at the Harvard Kennedy School.

Davidson’s strong connection to the university was highlighted during the 2025 Homecoming Weekend, when he received the Distinguished Citizen Award at the Eller Alumni Awards Breakfast. This honor recognizes individuals whose civic leadership, public service, and professional accomplishments reflect the mission and values of the Eller College of Management.

“Ethical leadership is the foundation of trust in government and business,” says Davidson. “I’m honored to join the CLE Advisory Board and help prepare future leaders to make principled decisions that strengthen communities and organizations.”

Paul Melendez, University Distinguished Outreach Professor and founder of the Center for Leadership Ethics, added: “I have witnessed firsthand Gilbert’s deep devotion, commitment, and loyalty to public service and to the University of Arizona and the Eller College of Management. His experience in public administration and his commitment to ethical governance makes him an outstanding addition to our Advisory Board.”

Davidson’s appointment reinforces CLE’s mission to advance ethical leadership across sectors—impacting students, organizations, and communities throughout Arizona and beyond.