In an exclusive interview with rolling out, Toinette Gunn, LPC, MH, discusses how the landmark ruling of Brown v. Board of Education has influenced LINK Unlimited’s mission and operations. LINK Unlimited Scholars, a local program in Chicago, is working to empower Black high school students by offering both education and career resources. Under Gunn’s leadership, LINK Unlimited remains committed to providing equitable educational opportunities for Black students.
How has the landmark ruling of Brown v. Board of Education influenced the mission and operations of LINK Unlimited under your leadership?
Brown v. Board of Education emphasizes the importance of equitable access to equal education for all students, specifically those of color. It reinforces diversity and inclusion in educational settings. At LINK Unlimited Scholars, we believe it is essential to provide adequate and accessible resources to all students, regardless of their racial or socioeconomic backgrounds. We strive to address inequities in education and advocate for policies that promote access to higher education.
Describe how LINK Unlimited’s programs address the educational and socio-economic barriers that Black students often face.
LINK fosters inclusive environments that highlight diversity and empower students to be successful. We address barriers by providing tutoring and one-on-one mentoring and increasing access to quality private schools via scholarships. We facilitate college visits and guide students through the application processes for college and financial aid. Keeping academics at the center of our work prepares Scholars to earn scholarships and the strongest financial aid packages to reduce or eliminate the financial barriers to a college degree.
What inspired your passion for working with LINK Unlimited, and how do you see the organization’s role evolving in the context of current challenges in educational equity?
My passion is deeply rooted in my personal experience. I was a low-income first-generation college student, so I have a significant understanding of the barriers students of color face. Education is the most transformational experience I’ve had access to in my life—access and opportunities are game-changers. As CEO of LINK, I am driven to empower our Black youth while ensuring they have the necessary resources to access higher education.
What impact do you believe Brown v. Board of Education has had on the national conversation about race and education over the past 70 years, and how is LINK Unlimited contributing to this dialogue?
This historical court ruling dismantled systemic inequities that had impacted Black students for generations. LINK was founded because of these inequities, and we contribute to the ongoing dialogue by creating an ecosystem of fellow professionals to provide mentorship and college-readiness programming for highly motivated but under resourced youth. We will continue to advocate for equitable policies and foster inclusive communities, advancing the conversation on racial equity in education, until the educational opportunity gap no longer exists.
As we look to the future, what are the key challenges and opportunities you anticipate for Black students pursuing higher education, and how is LINK Unlimited preparing to address these?
Our students face educational and financial disparities, often including inadequate funding, resources, and opportunities for a quality education. These challenges are rooted in the lack of racial equity. Still, through LINK, we leverage our resources, programs, and partnerships to empower Black students and provide them with the access and opportunities they deserve to help them succeed to, through, and beyond college. We are working to create change that enhances educational equity for all Black students.
