Georgia Aquarium CEO Brian Davis dies

Caption

Georgia Aquarium CEO Dr. Brian Davis died Aug. 6, 2024.

Credit: Courtesy of Georgia Aquarium

Georgia Aquarium president and CEO Dr. Brian Davis has died, according to a statement from the aquarium.

Davis died on Tuesday, but a cause of death has not been released. 

Here is the statement in full:

It is with immense sadness we announce the passing of our leader, friend, and mentor, president and CEO, Dr. Brian Davis.

Brian was an exceptionally talented and intelligent individual who left a tremendous imprint on the education and zoological fields. Furthermore, he was a beautifully compassionate human being who lifted others up and dedicated himself to creating a caring and diverse space at the Aquarium.

He was a dynamic thinker and always pushed the boundaries of what we could achieve, making Georgia Aquarium an extraordinary place. He was one of the first employees at the Aquarium prior to opening in 2005 and led us through years of innovation and growth. Brian’s indelible imprint made all those he knew better – we are better because of Brian.

As we navigate this heartbreaking news, our priority lies with caring for staff. We may have limited operations over the coming days to allow our staff time to grieve.

“We are heartbroken by this news. Brian was a giant in leadership with his intellect, wisdom, and imagination,” said Steve Koonin, Chairman of the board of Georgia Aquarium.

Our thoughts are with Brian’s family and all those that he touched throughout his life.

While this has shaken us, Brian would have wanted us to find a path forward, and the board of directors have appointed executive vice president Travis Burke as interim CEO.

This is a developing story. Please check back for updates.

This story comes to GPB through a reporting partnership with Rough Draft Atlanta.