Community reads, often called One Book One Community programs, bring people together around a book (or two) and build community by sharing the exploration of different stories and perspectives. The power of these reads can have unexpected ripple effects as is the case with art at the new McLaren complex inspired by a 2014 LCC One Book selection. Mx. Laura Orta, LCC’s Centre for Engaged Inclusion director and coordinator of what is now LCC’s Beyond the Book program, and Linda Toomey, McLaren Greater Lansing’s Director of Marketing and Business Development, discuss the impact of common reading programs, the artwork at McLaren, and LCC’s 2022-23 Beyond the Book selections.

Mx. Laura Orta, originally from Metro-Detroit, have lived and worked around the globe and learned the practice of cultural humility and cultural respect. Currently, they are the Director of the Centre for Engaged Inclusion at Lansing Community College, where they are LCC’s JEDI Guide to premier and bespoke training and education in Justice, Equity, Diversity, and Inclusion (JEDI). They have led community reads worldwide at various places as a way to connect communities and public service agencies such as the military, higher education, first responders and local governments.

Linda Toomey, Director of Marketing and Business Development for McLaren Greater Lansing, has built her career on a passion for marketing, branding, and her desire to inspire teams and lead organizations. Previously with LCC’s Marketing department, she holds a B.A. in Advertising from MSU and a M.A in Organizational Leadership from Siena Heights University. She has received Addy awards, a Paragon Gold Award for Outstanding Achievement in Design by the National Council of Marketing & Public Relations honoring excellence at two-year colleges, and was a Wrike Excellence in Management finalist.

Email: Mx. Laura Orta

Website: Beyond the Book

Website: Centre for Engaged Inclusion

Email: Linda Toomey

Website: McLaren Greater Lansing