Dr. Toinette Gunn currently serves as the President & CEO of LINK Unlimited Scholars, a Chicago-based nonprofit dedicated to equipping talented Black high school students with the mentorship, resources, and foundational skills necessary for success to, through, and beyond college. Since joining LINK in 2022, Dr. Gunn has led the organization through transformative progress, enhancing its financial stability, expanding programming, and driving operational efficiencies.
During her tenure, Dr. Gunn has achieved significant milestones. Under her leadership, LINK increased its cash reserves, secured a financial surplus, and implemented technological innovations that improved operational efficiency. She also played a key role in securing nearly $500,000 in new funding, including re-engaging lapsed donors, further strengthening LINK’s financial health. Dr. Gunn’s commitment to equity and inclusion is evident in the creation of an equitable salary structure, the development of a formalized hiring process, and the successful onboarding of 16 new staff members.
Before joining LINK Unlimited Scholars, Dr. Gunn served as the Executive Director of Chicago Debates, where she led the organization through its most impactful period, serving nearly 1,800 students annually and successfully transitioning to virtual debates during the pandemic. She also developed the organization’s five-year strategic plan, secured multi-year grants, and elevated its brand visibility through media spotlights. Dr. Gunn’s prior roles include Vice President of Programs for Chicago Scholars, where she directed programming for nearly 3,000 students annually. Additionally, her career includes numerous leadership roles within international organizations like Boys Hope Girls Hope of Illinois (BHGH) and Habitat for Humanity Detroit. Dr. Gunn also served as the Executive Director of Chicago’s Partnership to Educate and Advance Kids (PEAK) and Detroit Michigan’s Student Mentor Partners, in providing at-risk youth with scholarships to afford them the opportunity at a quality private high school education, access to college, and one-on-one mentoring support.
Dr. Gunn holds a Bachelor of Arts degree in Criminal Justice and Sociology from Western Michigan University, a Master of Arts degree in Counseling and a Ph.D. in Education with a Counseling focus both from Oakland University. Dr. Gunn is a proud alumna of the Chicago Public Schools system, has been recognized twice as a Crain’s Chicago Business Notable Black Leader & Executive, is a Chicago Defender 2025 Woman of Excellence, and is a member of Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Inc. Her personal commitment to service is evident through her founding of the McClellan Family Foundation, which has financially supported education and youth initiatives across Chicagoland for more than 15 years.