Davine Davis, a lifelong advocate for music education and student activities, has been named a recipient of the prestigious Mal Mayse Distinguished Service Award. She received her award at the 2025 MSHSAA Basketball Championships. This award honors her unwavering commitment and outstanding service to the Missouri State High School Activities Association (MSHSAA).
Born and raised in Hopkins, Mo., Davine grew up in a household that valued hard work and community service. The daughter of Glenn and Erma Lou Owens, she attended and graduated from North Nodaway R-VI in Hopkins. It was during her formative years that her passion for music blossomed, ultimately leading to a lifelong career in education and student development.
Davine has been married to her high school sweetheart, Mark Davis, since 1980. Together, they have raised three children: Ben Davis of Joplin; Bryan Davis of Clarinda, Iowa.; and Megann Wiederholt of Guilford. Their family has since expanded with the joy of seven grandchildren—Kaydence, Gracelynn, Lila, Hudson, Emilia, Gage, and Viviann—who keep them busy attending games and concerts.
Davine’s path to becoming an educator was anything but traditional. Her dream of being a band director started in fifth grade, but she took an unconventional route to achieve it. Balancing work and education, she returned to school after the birth of her youngest daughter, Megann. Working at Owens Library at Northwest Missouri State University from 3-11 p.m., she attended classes during the day, a challenge she could not have overcome without the unwavering support of her husband, children and parents.
Davine’s career journey is a testament to her perseverance and dedication. She started as a Deputy Assessor in Nodaway County (1982-1987) and later worked as a receptionist for Dr. Robert E. Dunshee, M.D. (1987-1989). Her passion for education led her to Owens Library (1989-1994), where she managed teaching materials while completing her degree in Music Education.
Her tenure in education spanned multiple school districts, including:
- Stanberry R-II Schools (1994-1995): 5-12 Instrumental Music Director and K-3 Elementary Music Director. Under her guidance, the Concert Band earned a Division I rating at the MSHSAA Large Group Music Festival.
- North Nodaway R-VI Schools (1995-1997): 5-12 Instrumental and 6-12 Vocal Director, revitalizing the music program and encouraging student participation in music festivals.
- Bedford Community Schools, Iowa (1997-2004): Director of Bands (5-12) and Elementary Music Teacher. Under her leadership, the high school band doubled in size, and the marching band traveled to Arizona biennially to participate in the Fiesta Bowl Parade.
From 2004 to 2023, Davine served as the Assistant Executive Director of MSHSAA, overseeing music activities, spirit activities (cheer and dance), international student eligibility, and sanctioning. Her leadership in coordinating district and state music festivals ensured students had opportunities to showcase their talents statewide. She also directed multiple sports, including tennis, swimming & diving and girls volleyball.
Davine’s influence extended nationally as she served on the NFHS Spirit Rules Committee, NFHS Education Committee, and NFHS Sanctioning Review Group, helping to shape policies for student activities nationwide.
Davine’s commitment to education never wavered. She earned a Bachelor of Science in music education in 1994, graduating cum laude, a master’s degree in education in 1998, and a specialist degree in secondary administration in 2001 from Northwest Missouri State University.
Her accolades include:
- John Philip Sousa Music Award (1980)
- Who’s Who Among American High School Teachers (1998, 2000-2003)
- Missouri Music Educators Association John G. Patterson Leadership Award (2023)
Davine Davis’s dedication to education, student activities and MSHSAA has left an indelible mark on countless students and educators.