Dr. Christopher Davis Selected as Grand Marshal for 29th Memphis Christmas Parade

The Academy for Youth Empowerment (AFYE) is honored to announce that Dr. Christopher Davis has been selected to serve as the Grand Marshal for the 29th Annual Memphis Christmas Parade in Whitehaven.

Dr. Davis is a pillar of leadership in Memphis, embodying the parade's 2025 theme, "Celebrating the Gifts of Memphis." He brings a profound commitment to education, faith, and community service to this prestigious role. Dr. Davis currently serves as the 14th President of LeMoyne-Owen College, the only Historically Black College in Memphis. He is also the dedicated Pastor of St. Paul Missionary Baptist Church and an Adjunct Professor at Memphis Theological Seminary.

“We cannot imagine a better leader to serve as the Grand Marshal for this celebration than Dr. Christopher Davis,” said Fredrick McWilliams, Executive Producer of the parade. “His transformative work in education at LeMoyne-Owen College and his spiritual guidance in the community perfectly represent the ‘gifts’ we are celebrating. He is a role model for our youth and a testament to the powerful leadership that shapes our city.”

As Grand Marshal, Dr. Davis will lead the parade procession on Saturday, November 22, 2025, at 10:00 AM. The parade begins at Shelby Drive & Elvis Presley Blvd. and concludes at Elvis Presley Blvd. & Laudeen Dr.

Dr. Davis’s selection underscores the parade's focus on honoring those who dedicate their lives to uplifting Memphis through knowledge, faith, and service. The Academy for Youth Empowerment invites the entire community to come out and celebrate this Memphis tradition while honoring a true community leader.