Carrying an extensive history in education and administration, Davis Nelson currently takes his skills to Excel Christian Academy and the Bartow County Board of Education. Guided by his faith, Nelson is a husband, grandfather and Angus cattle farmer who, despite his active roles in the community, maintains a quiet demeanor and doesn't stray far from his successes -- for example, teaching the same Sunday school class for 44 years.

Name: Davis Nelson

Occupations/titles: Headmaster at Excel Christian Academy; president of Bartow County Board of Education; Bartow Berry College Administrator in Residence for Educational Leadership; and state chairman for the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools.

City of residence: Cartersville (Stilesboro community)

Family: My wife Elizabeth, a retired educator. We have been married 39 years. She is the daughter of the late Joe and Betty Smith Nelson. My parents are the late Gene and Mildred Kincannon Nelson. Children: Mary Beth Nelson Tumlin, a Cass High graduate and high school math teacher at Woodland High School, married to Jeff Tumlin, son of Steve and Angela Tumlin; Lauren Nelson, a Woodland High graduate and radiation specialist; grandson, Steven Tumlin, 18 months, the joy of his granddaddy. All of our families have lived in Bartow County for generations.

Education: Graduate of Cartersville High School; Undergraduate degree in Science and Teacher Education; Masters degree in Elementary Education; Masters degree in School Leadership and Administration; Specialist degree in Elementary Education; Specialist degree in School Leadership and Administration; Doctorate in School Leadership and Administration.



How long have you been working in education?

A. Forty years. I followed my mother's profession who was a great inspiration during my entire life.



What is your favorite aspect of working in education?

A. My favorite aspect of working in education is challenging teachers and students to improve to their fullest potential. Also, the opportunity to work with school districts to improve their performance and help school boards and superintendents work as a team. I have worked with so many wonderful and talented people through the years.

Whenever someone takes on multiple administrative roles in a community, there are questions of conflicts of interest. Will you address community members who question if your multiple roles create conflicts of interest?

A. I've been blessed to have worked at every level of education. God has provided opportunities through the past 40 years to use the skills and talents He has given me to help others in education. There have been key people placed in my work life through the years to guide me (U.S. Sen. Johnny Isakson, Gov. Roy Barnes, Gov. Sonny Perdue, Dr. Hall Rogers, and so many others). I am now using all the experiences I have had to help schools and school districts. Serving Berry College allows me to train and mentor future principals and superintendents. Serving as headmaster at Excel Christian Academy places me in a terrific environment to serve Christ by working with some great students and teachers. I'm able to make a direct impact on a daily basis. Serving Bartow County schools allows me to use my experiences and knowledge, from teaching first grade at the Governor's Office, to serving the people of Bartow County and our students and staff as we continue a tradition of excellence. I have been able to work with all these varied organizations very successfully by recognizing and staying within my roles and responsibilities.



What is your greatest achievement?

A. Living a life my children and grandchildren can be proud of.

What is something that people would be surprised to know about you?

A. A few things people would be surprised to know about me are: I taught first grade -- very few males taught the early grades in those days (back before there was dirt!); I have taught the same early childhood Sunday School class for 44 years; as a child I played marbles on the side of Highway 113 (Rockmart Highway); my grandson has me wrapped around his finger; and I am shy and do not like to talk in public or be in large crowds.

Where is your favorite place to be in Bartow?

A. Home on the farm. We raise Black Angus cattle and I love working on the farm and sharing the farm with my grandson. I enjoy seeing the baby calves born and grow up. The cows don't complain or call you on the phone, or, in this generation, text you!

What is your favorite restaurant or favorite food?

A. Homemade desserts -- no coconut; Doug's in Emerson.



What are three words you would use to describe yourself?

A. Three phrases: Committed Christian, Strong work ethic, Giving to others.



How do you like to spend your spare time?

A. I don't have spare time with all the jobs and commitments I have. Maybe someday I will sit on the porch and rest.

Do you have a personal philosophy?

A. My philosophy is to use my God given talents and skills to serve others wherever He leads. Help others without getting personal recognition.