William J. Davis

Mr. William J. Davis, born in 1885 to William and Catharine Davis, was a dedicated farmer from Mount Carroll, the birthplace of Shimer College. By the time of his passing in 1967, Davis had expanded his original 125-acre farm to an impressive 439 acres through a combination of purchases and inheritances.

In 1962, he signed his last will and testament, establishing a large estate that provided life income for three of his relatives. Upon their passing, the remainder of his estate was distributed to several organizations, including the Shimer Great Books School at North Central College.

The William J. Davis Scholarship was created through this trust to offer financial assistance to support Shimer students, ensuring his commitment to education would live on for generations.