LANSING, Mich. — Lansing Community College welcomed its new chief diversity officer just a few short months ago, but she has already made significant contributions and gained the respect and hearts of those she has come in contact with.
Tonya Bailey began her career at LCC in fall 2018 joining the college from Michigan State University where she served as the director of Student Success and focused on student support initiatives.
Bailey leads The Office of Diversity and Inclusion and strives to provide resources that foster awareness and empowers students with the tools, experiences and knowledge to promote global citizenship and a more inclusive campus.
Since joining LCC she has started the popular conversation series, ‘On and Poppin’ with Tonya Bailey where she addresses student concerns and issues over popcorn, with a nothing is off the table policy.
LCC’s President, Brent Knight says, “Tonya has taken the college by storm and her fresh approach, warm personality and ability to connect with others makes her a natural fit for the role of chief diversity officer.”
She is currently co-chairing LCC’s participation in the national 400 Years of African-American History Commission Act that commemorates four centuries of African-American History in the United States.
LCC Trustee Angela Mathews says, “Tonya Bailey is a force to be reckoned with and brings a power packed personality of grace, strength and acceptance.”
Prior to her time at MSU, Bailey spent 18 years at the University of Michigan-Flint gaining expertise in program development and design, academic advising, coaching and career development services. She also served as a lecturer in the College of Arts and Sciences and the Department of Africana Studies.
Bailey holds a bachelor’s of science from the University of Evansville and a master of public administration from the University of Michigan-Flint, and will soon complete her Ph.D. in educational leadership from Central Michigan University.
The Flint area native is making a splash in Lansing and is right at home at LCC.
