On February 11, 2026, Central State University welcomed young women leaders from across the region for Elect Her, a hands-on civic leadership training hosted by The Dayton Chapter of the Links, Incorporated in partnership with Running Start, a global organization specializing in training young women for civic and community leadership. The Links, Incorporated, is one of the nation’s oldest and largest volunteer service organizations for professional women of African descent. Since 1946, their 17,000 members – located across the United States, the Bahamas, and the United Kingdom – have advanced impactful programming in education, the arts, health equity, civic engagement, and youth development.
Designed to help college women build confidence, sharpen their voice, and see themselves as leaders, the training brought together students from Central State University, Wilberforce University, the University of Dayton, Wright State University, Sinclair Community College, and Ponitz Career Technology Center for a powerful day of panel conversations, skill-building sessions, and mentorship.
The program focused on equipping participants with the tools to engage in civic leadership while recognizing that leadership development begins long before graduation.
“Leadership comes in different situations,” said Central State University President Dr. Morakinyo A.O. Kuti. “So, while you’re in college, there are opportunities for you to lead. We need to give our students the skills as soon as possible, even while they are in college.”
In remarks to attendees, President Kuti reminded students that leadership is a journey requiring resilience and preparation.
“Leadership is not something that happens overnight. It takes dedication, commitment, hard work, and patience. It is not going to be smooth; you will encounter challenges as you grow. But that self-belief, that confidence, and that preparedness is what will make you an even more effective leader.”
Building Partnerships, Strengthening Foundations
For The Dayton Chapter of the Links, Incorporated, bringing Elect Her to Central State represented a deepening of its commitment to Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCUs) and activating national programming at the local level.
“We are excited about the relationship we’ve built with Running Start, and we know the power of national programming being activated at local levels,” said Donnica Hawes-Saunders, Founder and CEO of The Averity Group, a national public affairs firm, and Dayton Chapter of the Links, Incorporated HBCU Committee Co-Chair. “Bringing this to campus allows us to expand our partnership and build stronger relationships with the HBCUs in our area.”
Lessons in Leadership and Confidence
Panelists from The Dayton Chapter of the Links, Incorporated shared candid insights about leadership, service, and professional growth.
Dr. Rosalind “Dr. Roz” Mascall, Board-Certified Obstetrician and Gynecologist and founder of Total Health & Wellness OBGYN, reminded students that effective leadership begins with listening.
“To be a good leader, you have to be a good follower. When you’re part of a group, it’s not just what you say. A leader listens to the whole team and brings everyone’s strengths together to create a collective approach.”
Chanel Wilson, higher education leader, ministry servant, and public speaker, encouraged participants to recognize leadership in everyday moments.
“Even while you are serving and are a member at a meeting, you are a leader. It’s how you frame those experiences — how you reflect on conflicts, challenges, and situations — and place them in your leadership toolbox.”
Gail Johnson, Entrepreneur in Residence at The Entrepreneurs’ Center, addressed the often-unspoken challenge of imposter syndrome.
“When you have general knowledge across different areas, you have the ability to pivot into new spaces. If I needed expertise, I wasn’t afraid to bring someone into the room with me. Education allows you to debunk imposter syndrome because you already have what you need to be successful.”
Tasha Cole served as the training facilitator. She has over two decades of experience spanning politics, public service, and media and currently serves as a Senior Advisor to several organizations including the Democratic Congressional Campaign Committee (DCCC), where she previously made history as the organization’s first Chief Diversity Officer. Tasha is also former Chair of the Running Start Board of Directors and affirmed the organization’s intentional approach.
“Running Start does a tremendous job of looking at where young women are and tailoring programming that maximizes their involvement while recognizing the realities they face.”
Her message to students was simple but powerful:
“Believe in yourself. Believe in your dreams. Believe in your community and how you want to give back. Invest in yourself — whether through Running Start or another opportunity. Show up. Participate. Volunteer. And remember to pay it forward.”
Inspired to Lead
Through mentorship, dialogue, and hands-on engagement, Elect Her, reinforced Central State University’s ongoing commitment to preparing students not only for career success, but for meaningful civic and community leadership.
As President Kuti emphasized, leadership development cannot wait.
It begins now.