Central State University welcomes Dayton Mayor Jeffrey Mims Jr. for an inspiring classroom visit

Above: Dayton Mayor Jeffrey J. Mims Jr., a 1973 graduate of Central State University, visits a University classroom for an engaging conversation about civic engagement, education, and resilience. 

WILBERFORCE, OH – Students at Central State University recently received a visit from Dayton Mayor Jeffrey J. Mims Jr., a 1973 graduate of Central State University, who shared his journey from Central State student to community leader, emphasizing the impact of civic engagement, education, and resilience. Professor Brittany Brake introduced Mayor Mims to her class, remarking, "He was once like you, sitting in these seats. Now look at him."  

The mayor, who made time in his schedule to be fully present with students, greeted the class warmly. “This is a priority for me,” he said. 

“I would say to you all that while you represent 20% of our population, you are 100% of our future.” 

Throughout his visit, Mims highlighted the importance of young people in shaping the future, especially in communities like Dayton.  

Reflecting on his upbringing, Mims shared experiences from his early years in Dayton Public Schools, where he excelled in academics, sports, and the arts. "I was passionate about understanding government and improving the quality of life for people," he said. 

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Mims recounted challenges he faced due to systemic racism, including conflicts with teachers, and his determination to persevere. His time in Vietnam with the U.S. Army and his work in education following his return further defined his commitment to serving his community. 

Central State University played a pivotal role in shaping his path. As Mims spoke, students learned about his early days as a student majoring in graphic arts and photography. He credited Central State for fostering his leadership abilities, emphasizing the importance of valuing oneself and others — lessons he would later instill in his students as a teacher and coach in Dayton.  

“My love and experiences at Central State made me who I am today,” he affirmed. 

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Mims has held a variety of influential positions, including president of the Dayton teacher’s union, local and state school board president, school board member, and eventually, mayor of Dayton. His journey from educator to mayor has been driven by a commitment to creating the best conditions for others to succeed.  

“Our job, as elected officials, is to create the best conditions for you to find your skill, your talent, so that you can make your best contribution to our society,” he told the students.  

Mariah Simmons, a graduating senior majoring in Criminal Justice with a minor in Political Science, shared her takeaways after the visit. 

“One of my biggest takeaways is that when the mayor discussed how hard his journey was to become mayor of Dayton, he never gave up on his dreams and used all those negative comments of him being a Black man in America to prove everyone wrong,” Simmons said. “That inspires me, especially being a Black woman in America who aspires to be in the political field.” 

Cameron Baldwin, a junior majoring in Political Science and Communications, came away from the class with a new understanding of the significance of voting and civic involvement, with community development, empowerment, and accountability as key components.  

“As he described the discrepancy in the Black vote in the current economy, Mayor Mims underlined the significance of voting, particularly for African Americans,” Baldwin reflected. 

In his closing remarks, Mims encouraged students to find and use their unique talents and to prioritize kindness and resilience in the face of challenges. His words, drawn from a lifetime of service and a commitment to growth, resonated with students, faculty, and staff alike. 

Central State University is proud to call Mims one of our own, and we are grateful for the lasting impact of his story and words on our campus. As he reminded us, the students of today truly represent the future of our communities, our city, and our nation.