Dawn Leaks Ragsdale is a dynamic leader with a proven track record in strategic leadership, entrepreneurship, fundraising, and community engagement. As the inaugural executive director of The Center for Inclusive Growth she champions equitable economic development in New Haven. Previously, she led Collab, a New Haven non-profit, where she expanded programming to provide additional support to women entrepreneurs and to prepare underrepresented entrepreneurs to access capital. Dawn's entrepreneurial experience includes leading Lioness for The Female Entrepreneur to profitability and successful exit. She is a skilled fundraiser, securing major support from diverse sources, and a dedicated educator, having taught at Hampshire and Bay Path Colleges. Dawn’s leadership has been recognized with awards such as the Quinnipiac Chamber of Commerce’s Excellence in Advocacy Award. Beyond her professional achievements, she is an avid R&B soul line dancer and a proud member of Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Inc.