The 51-year-old star's husband, actor Julius Tennon, 63, and her daughter Genesis were in attendance, along with Oscar-winning actress Meryl Streep, who presented the honour to Davis, reported People magazine.
"I wish he were here. He died in 2006 and, um, he would think this is pretty fantastic," Davis said.
Davis also reflected on her difficult upbringing, saying, "The only picture I have of myself as a kid in kindergarten is with a little... Expression that's not really a smile, not really a frown, just something.
After thanking her family and Streep for their support, Davis said, "I cannot believe my life right now. All I can say is, 'God has blessed my life in abundance'.