On March 30, 1950, 12 women came together to form the 17th chapter of The Links, Incorporated. The charter members were friends and professional women who understood the need to assume civic, cultural and social responsibilities in their community. These founding members were Vivian Beamon, Johnnie Mae Berry, Reber Cann, Margaret Clarke, Ethel Caliman Deal, Vera Edwards, Camille Hood, Ruth Hubbard, Evelyn Jones, Laura Lovelace, Odessa Simms, and Mary Weatherly.

The Cincinnati (OH) Chapter was fully engaged in national endeavors from its inception.  Margaret Clarke, a co-chairperson of the national membership committee, created the format for the Initiation Service. Vivian Beamon became the Fourth Chapter President, the Fourth Central Area Director and the Fourth National President. She is credited with developing the concept of the Links Foundation and the adoption of Fine Arts as a programmatic focus. Margaret Hough became the first National Director of the Arts, while Marian Spencer became a civil rights icon. Yvonne Robertson served as the National Arts Facet Chair during National President Marion Elizabeth Schultz Sutherland’s tenure, while Kathy Wade was the National Co-Communications Chair throughout National President Glenda Newell Harris’ term. 

The chapter established an exemplary record of philanthropy both locally and internationally. The initial “Card Party” event, in the 1950s, raised funds for Camp Joy, the first integrated camp for children in Cincinnati.  For nearly 45 years, the couture Ebony Fashion Fair was presented.  Proceeds were given to community service agencies and for collegiate scholarships. Additionally, the chapter is most proud of its singular effort to build the first Links School in Africa.

Signature programs have left an indelible impact upon Cincinnati.  The most notable of the educational and enrichment programs was the College Jamboree and career conference which lasted fifteen years.  Repeated student participation resulted in significant attitudinal and behavioral changes including increased college enrollment. Some became community leaders.  Discovery ’70 was an art exhibit for African American artists created for the 1970 Links National Convention held in Cincinnati. Even though it was the 1970’s, it was extremely difficult to find a location to host the exhibit. Fortunately, DAAP at the University of Cincinnati partnered with the chapter to host the event. Subsequently, Focus: ’88 - The Black Artists was a huge event as professional artists from around the country had their work displayed at various venues throughout Cincinnati such as the Contemporary Arts Center and the Cincinnati Art Museum. Proceeds benefited Links programming. The chapter later initiated the Young Achievers umbrella project which offered academic course work and cultural field trips. It continued for four years.  In 2003, the ongoing “award-winning” Youth Docent Program was designed and implemented for the National Underground Railroad Freedom Center. Additionally, every year, 100 girls participate in The Girl’s Conference which focuses on financial, nutritional, personal, and physical health.

Each year, the Cincinnati Chapter renews its commitment to address needs in the community, while remaining Linked in Friendship and Connected in Service.