'Centre' is spot for students to engage

By Chloe Gregg
Associate Editor

For some students, college may be the first real interaction they have with the expansive and diverse world out there.

Not everyone grew up in the city or had access to diverse and courageous conversations about cultures and race, and students may feel like they want to expand this knowledge.

The Centre for Engaged Inclusion is the perfect place for students who are interested in learning more about diversity, inclusion and cultural awareness. The Centre is located in the Gannon Building in room 2204 and is open Monday through Friday from 9 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.

Dr. Tonya Bailey, the Chief Diversity Officer at LCC, said The Centre is welcoming new and returning students to another academic year at LCC.

“The Centre for Engaged Inclusion engages the campus and Lansing area in building an equitable and inclusive community through intellectual exploration and collaboration,” Bailey said. “We envision a community where everyone has a sense of belonging and possibility, and is empowered to cultivate an equitable world.

“The Centre provides use of space for studying, small groups, workshops, technology, coffee and water.”

There are multiple ways that students can “engage” with the Centre for Engaged Inclusion, according to Bailey, including:

• Students can pick up free books for the “Beyond the Books” series;
• Sign up to serve on a cultural awareness team;
• Attend DEI trainings and workshops including Safe Zone Training;
• Get a DEI micro-credentialing;
• Join LGBTQIA+ dialogue group;
• Attend monthly forums such as “On & Poppin” and Courageous Conversations;
• Participate in monthly films and dialogues;
• Check out cultural resources;
• Host student meetings;
• Use as a study lounge;
• Meet up with faculty;
• Use “Brave Space” for being authentically you;
• Obtain meditation room information

All students, faculty, and employees are welcome to enjoy and hang out in the inclusive and safe environment provided by the Centre for Engaged Inclusion. There will be an open house in late September for students and employees to attend that will include giveaways, music and refreshments.

For more information, visit LCC’s Office of Diversity and Inclusion website here.