Her Story
About Cherrelle
Cherrelle Duncan serves as Director of Community Engagement at LINK Houston, where she advances public transportation advocacy and community-centered initiatives within the nonprofit sector. With a career rooted in public service, nonprofit leadership, and civic engagement, she brings extensive experience in fundraising, advocacy, coalition building, and organizational leadership. Duncan began her professional journey with a bachelor’s degree in public relations before earning a Master of Public Service and Administration (MPSA) from the Bush School at Texas A&M University. Her previous experience includes roles with UT Health, Susan G. Komen, and Houston City Council District F, where she served as Chief of Staff.
In her current role, Duncan leads initiatives designed to strengthen community participation and influence public policy. She manages more than 70 volunteers, develops advocacy training programs for marginalized communities, organizes community engagement initiatives such as Week Without Driving, and builds strategic coalitions with public officials and community organizations. Her leadership reflects a strong commitment to ensuring that residents have meaningful opportunities to shape decisions affecting their communities. She attributes her success to the support of her family and community and is guided by the values of authenticity, integrity, curiosity, and radical honesty.
Beyond her professional responsibilities, Duncan is deeply engaged in civic and community leadership. She serves as President of the National Forum of Black Public Administrators Greater Houston Chapter, Connection Chair for Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority’s Psi Mu Omega Chapter, and a board member of Ash Mays Seeds of Abraham. She is also a member of the National Urban League Young Professionals, Junior League of Houston, and Leadership Houston Class 43. Her accomplishments include being named the Bush School’s first Black Alumni of the Year in 2022, receiving the Politick Engagement Fund Bravery Award in September 2025, the Bush School Outstanding Alumni Award in October 2022, the City of Houston Bravo Award in May 2021, and the Association of Fundraising Professionals International Young Outstanding Professional Award in April 2017.
Her Interview
Ten minutes with Cherrelle
01What do you attribute your success to?
I attribute my success to the unwavering support of my family, the encouragement of my community, and a strong belief in my own abilities. Throughout my journey, I have been fortunate to have people in my life who believed in me, encouraged me to pursue my goals, and empowered me to grow through every opportunity and challenge. Their support has strengthened my confidence, resilience, and commitment to service, reminding me of the importance of both believing in myself and creating that same sense of possibility for others.
02What’s the best career advice you’ve ever received?
The best career advice I ever received came from my late father: “When you’re climbing the ladder, always remember to reach back.” His words have remained a guiding principle throughout my career. Success is not only about how far we advance, but also about how we use our position to give back, create opportunities, and help others grow. I believe in extending the same support, encouragement, and opportunities that others provided to me, while making a meaningful difference in the lives and careers of those coming behind me.
03What advice would you give to young women entering your industry?
My advice to young women entering this industry is to never shrink yourself or diminish your voice to make others comfortable. Be confident in your abilities, remain curious, and never be afraid to ask questions or seek guidance. Most importantly, develop the courage and grit to speak up, advocate for what is right, and stand firmly in your values. Your perspective matters, and you should never underestimate the impact you can make when you lead with confidence, integrity, and purpose.
04What are the biggest challenges or opportunities in your field right now?
One of the biggest challenges and opportunities in advocacy work today is finding the balance between speaking clearly and courageously while navigating an increasingly complex environment. Advocacy requires strong messaging, thoughtful strategy, and the willingness to speak up for what is right, even when doing so may bring criticism or backlash. At the same time, organizations are facing challenges related to safety, funding, and restructuring, which can create uncertainty and limit capacity. However, these challenges also present an opportunity to build stronger coalitions, deepen community partnerships, and develop greater resilience. I believe that by working collaboratively, staying grounded in our purpose, and remaining adaptable, we can turn challenges into opportunities for meaningful and lasting change.
05What values are most important to you in your work and personal life?
The values that are most important to me, both personally and professionally, are authenticity, integrity, curiosity, and radical honesty. I believe in showing up as my genuine self, leading with integrity, and treating people with honesty and respect. Curiosity keeps me open to learning, listening, and challenging my own perspectives, while radical honesty allows me to communicate openly, build trust, and approach difficult conversations with courage. These values guide how I lead, collaborate, serve my community, and navigate both opportunities and challenges.
Join Influential Women and start making an impact. Register now.