The Ambassador

July 2024 | Volume 2, Issue 6

Central State University is on the verge of a new era with our new 10th President, Dr. Morakinyo A.O. Kuti, '85, at the helm. This marks a significant milestone as we recommit to our Six Pillars of Access, prioritizing student success and Institutional advancement. Our recent realignment within Academic Affairs demonstrates our proactive approach to fostering collaboration across disciplines. This, combined with our relentless pursuit of accreditation and dedication to creating a sense of belonging, underscores our promise to provide a supportive environment for every student to thrive academically and personally. Central State University remains a symbol of opportunity, nurturing our students' ambitions and preparing them to lead purposefully in our rapidly changing world. We invite you to explore the latest edition of the Ambassador e-newsletter, showcasing these inspiring developments.

Dr. Morakinyo A.O. Kuti: Charting a bold new course

a man using a power chair speaks into a microphone

Dr. Morakinyo A.O. Kuti's journey to the presidency of Central State University has been as diverse and enriching as the Institution he now leads. From his early days growing up in Nigeria to becoming an esteemed alum of Central State in 1985, Kuti's path has uniquely prepared him for the role of the University's 10th president.

Born out of a profound understanding of the transformative power of education, Kuti's journey began when he left home at age 10 to attend boarding school in Nigeria. This experience shaped his life, instilling in him a deep appreciation for the educational environment and its impact on students. Read More

President shares approach, vision for Ohio's only public HBCU

Dr. Morakinyo A.O. Kuti, who took the helm as Central State University’s 10th President on July 1, brings a wealth of experience and a clear vision for the Institution’s future. Most recently serving as the vice president of Research and Economic Development, Kuti has already made significant strides in fostering innovation and addressing societal needs through research initiatives.

Kuti graduated from Central State University with a Bachelor of Science in 1985, earning a Master of Business Administration with an International Business concentration from St. Thomas University in Miami, Florida, in 1987. In 2017, Kuti earned his doctoral degree in Public Policy and Administration from Walden University.

At the heart of Kuti’s approach is a strong belief in leveraging research to tackle pressing societal issues. He emphasizes the importance of identifying problems that research can solve, ensuring that resources — particularly talented individuals — are directed toward these goals.

BE INSPIRED BY THE VISION

graphic showing the buildings housing the college of education and college of humanities arts and social sciences

Two esteemed colleges merge to support students

Central State University proudly announces the merger of its esteemed College of Education and College of Humanities, Arts, and Social Sciences to form the College of Humanities, Arts, Social Sciences, and Education (CHASE), marking a pivotal moment in the University's rich 137-year history.

lecture hall with students in seats and professor teaching

Central State commits to Six Pillars of Access

Central State University is not merely a campus of learning; it is a springboard for dreams, a sanctuary where ambition meets opportunity. The Six Pillars of Access — connect, convert, enter, learn, retain, and complete — are a testament to our commitment to the success of Central State University students.

Dr. Jose Toledo named vice president for Research and Economic Development, director of 1890 Land-Grant Programs

Central State University is pleased to announce the selection of Jose Ulises Toledo, Ph.D., as the vice president for Research and Economic Development and director of 1890 Land-Grant Programs, effective Aug. 1, 2024.

Toledo brings a wealth of experience and expertise to Central State University, having most recently served as the vice chancellor for Research at the Southern University Agricultural Research and Extension Center. In this role, he provided strategic leadership in agricultural research, intellectual property advancement, technology transfer, and international research collaborations.

Toledo's research interests span food science, nutrition, plant genomics, technology adoption, innovation networks, artificial intelligence, and the economic impact of innovations.

MEET DR. TOLEDO

Fostering a strong sense of belonging

Central State University has long been committed to creating an inclusive, engaging, and supportive environment for its diverse student body. This commitment is clear in the University's ongoing initiatives to foster a strong sense of belonging among its students.

"The canvas is blank. Students paint it as they see fit, and we're here to support them on their journey." — Dr. Ryan Griffin, vice president, Engagement and Persistence and dean, Student Development

Feel the Spirit

the cover of a seat at the table the life and times of shirley chisholm by glenn l starks and f erik brooks

Join our team for the 2024 African American Wellness Walk!

Premier Health will host the 2024 African American Wellness Walk benefiting Central State University and neighboring Wilberforce University. Join in person or virtually to support our team! The theme is "Moving Hearts & Soles."

IN-PERSON WALK: Saturday, Aug. 18 | 8 a.m.

Program begins at 7:30 a.m.

Island Metropark

101 E. Helen St., Dayton, Ohio

VIRTUAL WALK: Now through Aug. 17

flyer for the 2024 african american wellness walk

a professor in a lab coat with student researchers

'From the Ground Up': USDA invests $10 million for climate smart research

The United States Department of Agriculture has allocated a $10 million grant for Central State University and partner Land-Grant universities in Ohio and Missouri to accelerate the adoption of climate smart agricultural practices.

Climate smart agricultural practices (CSAPs) are emerging as potential solutions to reduce greenhouse gas emissions, enhance carbon sequestration, improve climate resilience and ensure farm viability. However, traditional top-down approaches to promoting adoption have been slow.

This project takes a novel approach by collaborating with farmers "From the Ground Up" to identify and overcome barriers, thereby accelerating the adoption of CSAPs on Midwest farms. Read More

Shrimp Tacos with Ginger Mango Salsa

Delight your taste buds with these vibrant Shrimp Tacos featuring a zesty Ginger Mango Salsa, a recipe shared by Central State University Extension. Bursting with flavors of smoked paprika, chipotle chili, and a hint of ginger, these tacos offer a refreshing twist on a classic dish. Each bite promises a perfect balance of spice and freshness, making it a favorite for any occasion.

Get the Recipe

Mexican tacos with shrimps corn tomatoes and salsa

Catch up on the latest news

There's never been a better time to be a Marauder. You can be part of advancing academic excellence for students from across the world.

SUPPORT THE NEXT GENERATION

The Ambassador is a University Communications publication designed to keep students, faculty, staff, alumni, donors, friends, and others informed about news and developments at Central State University. To share your story ideas, questions, and comments, contact editor Alissa Paolella, communications manager, at apaolella@centralstate.edu or the Office of Public Relations at publicrelations@centralstate.edu.