From Dillard University to Disney Branded Television: Meet Ayo Davis
Meet Ayo Davis, President of Disney Branded Television (DBT)! As a proud alumna from Dillard University, Ayo brings foundational lessons she learned from her Historical Black College and University (HBCU) experience into her leadership role today.
Keep reading to learn more about her professional journey and her personal connection to Disney’s commitment to HBCUs.
1. Walk us through your Disney career story!
I've been with the company for more than 20 years! I started as a manager of Development and Casting at ABC, where I helped oversee the talent development program and championed rising actors, writers and directors. That role laid the groundwork for what I love most: identifying great voices and helping shape compelling stories.
Over the years, I took on broader leadership roles across casting and content, eventually becoming EVP of Casting for ABC and Disney+. In 2020, I moved to Disney Branded Television, focusing more deeply on storytelling for one of Disney’s most essential audiences: kids and families.
Today, I oversee the teams that create kids’ content for Disney+, Disney Channel, Disney Jr., YouTube, and more. Whether it’s animated favorites like “Marvel’s Spidey and his Amazing Friends” and “Phineas and Ferb” or live-action titles like “Percy Jackson and the Olympians,” “ZOMBIES,” and “Descendants,” I get to work with some of the most creative minds in the business – all in service of telling stories that connect with kids in lasting ways.
2. What inspired you to pursue a career with Disney?
Growing up in Orange County, California, Disney was always part of my life, whether it was visiting Disneyland or getting lost in the magic of my favorite Disney movie – “The Rescuers” – those experiences sparked a lifelong love of storytelling and imagination. That’s what drew me here and keeps me inspired. To now be part of the team that brings that same happiness and magic to kids around the world (including my own daughter) is both surreal and incredibly fulfilling.
3. How would you describe Disney Branded Television? What makes DBT special to you?
At Disney Branded Television, our mission is to bring happiness to kids through the power of storytelling. We connect with young audiences at every stage, from preschool through their teen years, and help create memories that last a lifetime. We create original stories that grow into franchises like “SuperKitties” or“Descendants,” while also introducing new generations to iconic Disney characters with shows like “Mickey Mouse Clubhouse” and “Spidey and his Amazing Friends.” All of them spark imagination, bring joy and create meaningful memories. That’s the magic of Disney Branded Television.
4. How did your HBCU experience prepare you for your current role?
My time at Dillard University instilled in me the importance of community, accountability, self-belief and belonging. I learned how powerful it is to be part of an environment that pushes you to be your best but also supports you every step of the way. That foundation shows up in how I lead today. I aim to build a workplace where people feel seen, supported and empowered to take risks and grow.
5. Why is Disney’s commitment to HBCUs important to you?
As a proud HBCU alum, Disney’s commitment to HBCUs is deeply personal to me. I know firsthand the impact of being seen, supported, and given a platform to thrive. By investing in these institutions and their students, we’re not only nurturing future leaders, we’re honoring the legacy of excellence that HBCUs represent and ensuring that our talent pipeline continues to grow and flourish.
6. How do you bring your HBCU culture into your role at Disney?
Dillard taught me to show up with excellence, uplift others, and lead with intention. That spirit carries with me through everything I do at Disney – from how we approach strategy to how I support and mentor my team.
7. Have you participated in any HBCU events? What did those experiences mean to you?
One of the most profound experiences I've had was returning to Dillard to deliver the 2024 commencement address. Standing before the graduating class, I was filled with immense pride and gratitude. It was a full-circle moment that reminded me of the transformative power of HBCUs. Sharing my journey and encouraging the next generation of leaders was both humbling and inspiring. And while I wasn’t able to be there, I was thrilled to see the photos and videos from Disney on the Yard’s Dillard visit this year!
8. Do you have any advice for current HBCU students wanting to start their career with Disney?
It’s okay to not have it all figured out right now. Like the most powerful stories, our paths don’t always follow a straight line, and that’s okay. What matters most is staying curious, being open to growth and showing up as your full self. So use this time to invest in yourself, explore new ideas and be receptive to new opportunities. Keep asking questions. There’s no single path to success, but if you stay curious, lead with purpose and remain true to who you are, you’ll be ready when that door opens.
9. Do you have any advice for current Disney employees that want to grow their career with Disney Entertainment?
Be your own best advocate. Speak up about your goals, raise your hand for opportunities, and seek out mentors who will both challenge and champion you. At Disney Entertainment, we’re all storytellers in one way or another. So own your story, trust your instincts and let your purpose guide your next chapter. In my experience, when your work is rooted in purpose, it not only moves your career forward, it elevates the work and inspires those around you to do the same.
Learn more about The Walt Disney Company’s dedication to building a community for HBCU alumni and providing meaningful opportunities for students at Disney on the Yard.
