Davis Architects Relies on APLA Alumni Leaders

Davis Architects has thrived for over a century by designing with purpose and fostering a team built on respect and shared passion. Originally founded in Birmingham in 1912 by E. B. Van Keuren, Auburn alumni Charles F. Davis Jr. ‘32 and Helen Davis ‘35 joined the firm in 1939 and became partners in 1946. Their son Neil Davis joined the firm in 1976 after graduating from APLA and rose to lead principal and then president, guiding the firm for nearly five decades.

Over the years, the studio bore many names—having been renamed to Davis Architects in 1986—but always held its mission to create enduring communities while investing in its team members. Currently, over half of the studio’s employees are Auburn graduates, and 2025 ushers in a new wave of APLA-trained senior leadership.

Courtney Pittman ‘98 has been promoted to President—the first female head of the firm in its 113-year history—succeeding Neil Davis, who will transition to Director of Design and Board Chairman. Gabe Fuller ‘02 has been promoted to Senior Vice President, and five other APLA alums were elevated to Principal including Emily Horton ‘04, CJ Brennan ‘07, Andrew Taylor ‘15, Bob Benner ‘12 and Skylar Howard ‘14.

Davis Architects has been a longtime supporter of the College of Architecture, Design and Construction (CADC) and Urban Studio through financial gifts and recruitment efforts, as well as participating in mentorship and Career Day initiatives.

“CADC programs are among the most rigorous in the country, and their approach prepares students well for leadership,” Pittman said, lauding the presentation and critique jury system, combination of individual and collaborative work and hands-on experiences. “Through these opportunities, Auburn students gain both practical skills and a commitment to designing for communities, which equips them for meaningful, long-term careers in the profession.”

“Auburn has played a meaningful role in shaping Davis Architects, both through the graduates on our team and the influence of the Auburn Creed,” she continued, noting the studio integrates values of hard work, integrity and service into the practice and client relationships. “The creed’s call to work wisely with honesty and truthfulness reflects the way we strive to treat our clients and mentor the next generation of architects.”