The People of CSU: Dr. Ramon Moon

Empowering students to discover their purpose

Above: Dr. Ramon Moon (center) holds his diploma at the graduation ceremony for his doctorate degree. He is pictured with Dr. Patrice Callery (right), the committee chair for Moon's dissertation, and Dr. William T. Luckey Jr., president of Lindsey Wilson College.

Dr. Ramon Moon, an Academic Advisor in the Office of Academic Coaching and Advising at Central State University, is on a mission to help Marauders uncover their strengths and grow into their best selves during their time at the Historically Black University in Wilberforce, Ohio. 

As the middle of three generations of Marauders, Dr. Moon embodies Central State pride. A 2010 graduate, he majored in Mass Communications (Radio and Television) with a minor in Sound Engineering and Recording. His mother, Sharron Rankin-Moon, ’79, and his “bonus daughter,” Camiyah Woods, a current sophomore majoring in Biology, also share the CSU connection. 

Dr. Moon’s academic journey continued with a master’s degree in Human Development and Counseling and a certificate in Substance and Addiction from Lindsey Wilson College in Columbia, Kentucky. Most recently, he earned a Ph.D. in Counselor Education and Supervision from the same college in 2024, further solidifying his dedication to student growth and success. 

All roads lead back to Central State University

Dr. Moon began his professional career as a high school teacher and career specialist with the Cincinnati Youth Collaborative, where he guided students through enrollment, enlistment, and employment. 

“I’ve always been helping people from where they are, but I never got to see where they go,” he reflected.

This realization spurred his transition to higher education. In April 2021, he returned to his alma mater as an academic advisor.  

“Central State was the place I knew the most,” he said. 

Today, Dr. Moon serves students in the John W. Garland College of Engineering, Science, Technology, and Agriculture. His role as an academic advisor goes beyond course planning — he mentors, inspires, and provides hope for students navigating their academic and career paths. 

Using his mental health and educational background, Dr. Moon adopts a holistic approach to student success. He employs the gradual release model (“I do, we do, you do”) to help students gain confidence and take ownership of their journeys. 

The influences that shaped him 

Dr. Moon’s own path to higher education was not straightforward. He credits his mother and his high school mentor, Diane Warren, who filled out his college application without his permission, for shaping his understanding of the importance of education. These experiences inform his passion for guiding students who may face similar uncertainties. 

“One of the biggest challenges for our students is figuring out the ‘why,’” he explained. Dr. Moon excels at helping students uncover their true passions and strengths, especially those who arrive at CSU with expectations set by others. 

Beyond one-on-one advising, Dr. Moon teaches the USS 1000 course, which helps first-year students transition to college life and discover the broader purpose of their education. He also leverages his involvement with organizations like NACADA (the National Academic Advising Association) and the National Career Development Association to connect students with broader networks and opportunities. 

Celebrating student success 

Dr. Moon finds immense fulfillment in witnessing the growth and success of his students. He fondly recalls moments like seeing a once-nervous first-year student excel as a Biology major and aspire to become a pharmacist. He also reflects on Isaiah Aikens’ transformation from a freshman to Mister CSU (2024-25), exemplifying the leadership potential Dr. Moon strives to cultivate. 

“Leave places better than you found them,” he advises — a mantra he instills in every student. 

Dr. Moon’s dedication to Central State runs deep. “Working at an HBCU means serving individuals who look like me,” he said. “It’s about molding yourself to mirror the things you’re asking students to be.” 

His pursuit of a Ph.D. in Counselor Education and Supervision reflects this ethos. “Becoming a doctor wasn’t just for me; it was for the people I interact with, to show them it can be done.” 

Leaving a legacy 

Dr. Moon has ambitious plans, including expanding his work in mental health, literacy, and systemic change. One of his innovative ideas is a mobile bookstore to bring literature and mental health resources to underserved communities, emphasizing their importance for personal growth and literacy. 

Dr. Moon is a beacon of inspiration at Central State University. His journey, service, and unwavering belief in every student’s potential embody the essence of CSU’s mission of excellence and accessibility. Through his work, Dr. Moon continues to leave Central State better than he found it — one student at a time. 

Editor’s note: The People of CSU is a regular column produced by Central State University, celebrating the achievements and contributions of our esteemed staff members and highlighting the incredible impact they have on our students and community. To nominate a staff member, please contact Alissa Paolella, Communications Manager, at apaolella@centralstate.edu or 937-376-6603 or the Office of Marketing and Communications at publicrelations@centralstate.edu.