06/10/2026
✨ What a couple of days. What a room. What a privilege. ✨
Over the last two days, OAESV had the honor of hosting our inaugural Ohio RCC Directors Leadership Convening under the theme:
🩵 Hope. Build. Thrive.
What began as a vision became a reality as leaders from across Ohio gathered to connect, reflect, learn, challenge one another, and envision the future of sexual violence prevention and response in our state.
As I look back, I am reminded that one of the greatest privileges of leadership is the opportunity to curate spaces where people feel seen, heard, valued, and inspired.
There is something powerful about bringing together individuals who understand both the weight and the purpose of this work.
We had courageous conversations about leadership, sustainability, prevention, funding, wellness, and the future of our movement.
We learned from extraordinary leaders including:
✨ Dr. Indira Henard
✨ D. Lyne Watts
✨ Lori Jones-Perkins
We engaged in meaningful dialogue with state partners from:
✨ Ohio Department of Health
✨ Ohio Attorney General’s Office
✨ Ohio Office of Criminal Justice Services
Together, we explored not only the realities before us, but also the possibilities ahead.
And perhaps most importantly, we were reminded that none of us are carrying this work alone.
As I watched Directors connect across regions, share ideas, offer support, ask difficult questions, and dream boldly about what is possible, I was filled with hope.
Hope for our programs.
Hope for our field.
Hope for survivors.
Hope for Ohio.
These moments do not happen by accident.
They require intentionality, partnership, trust, and a team willing to work behind the scenes to make it all happen.
To Yasmin Ponce and Shandra Ingram—thank you. Your leadership, dedication, and countless hours of work helped transform a vision into an unforgettable experience.
To every Director who attended, thank you for investing in yourselves, in one another, and in the future of this work.
And to the survivors who continue to inspire us to do better, be better, and build stronger systems—we remain committed to you.
The work is not easy.
But what a privilege it is to do this work.
What a privilege it is to convene leaders.
What a privilege it is to build community.
What a privilege it is to witness hope in action.
The conversations will continue.
The partnerships will deepen.
The work moves forward.
And after these two days, I am more convinced than ever that Ohio’s future is being shaped by courageous leaders who refuse to give up on a world free from sexual violence.
💙 Hope.
💙 Build.
💙 Thrive.
Onward.
Rosa Beltré, President & CEO
