Welcome to the Office of Empowerment (OE)

Tanya McClain

Interim Chief Diversity Officer

Dear Lansing Community College (LCC) Family and Friends:

In this ongoing relay of service and leadership to the LCC community, it is both an honor and a privilege to have been handed the baton. As your Interim Chief Diversity Officer, I step into this role in full alignment with the firm foundation of empowerment established by our president and my predecessor. This shared vision positions the Office of Empowerment to move forward with clarity and purpose as we continue to build an even more inclusive, equitable, and united campus community. Grounded in a model that elevates Love over Hate, we continue to pursue empowerment, where each student, staff, and faculty member on our campuses experiences a true sense of belonging and is equipped with the resources and support they need to take ownership of their success more confidently. I feel fortunate to have the support of dedicated partners across our campuses and in our greater Lansing community who have long championed our shared mission and purpose. Read MoreI hope you see yourself as an integral part of this vital work.

As I look ahead, I’m reminded of the adage: “Don’t reinvent the wheel.” My assuming this role feels much like joining a race car in the middle of a race--when the driver makes a pit stop--not to overhaul the entire vehicle, but to swap out the tires so the car can continue at full speed. In the same way, this transition is not about changing the mission—it’s about sustaining momentum. I am thankful to have been part of the “pit crew” in my tenure as Director of the Martin Luther King, Jr. Equity Center, alongside my highly competent colleagues, and now I take my place on the track, ready to maintain the momentum and help carry the mission forward at full speed.

As a proud alumna of this institution, it is especially meaningful to me to return to my alma mater and serve in this capacity, giving back to the community that helped shape my path. I bring the perspective of a former student, the lens of a leader, and the heart of a lifelong advocate. With pride, passion, purpose, and a deep connection to this college and our community, I now carry that commitment into my administration, as well as the work of our three centers. The Office of Empowerment remains a space where all individuals, voices, and unique perspectives are not only welcomed but recognized as essential to our resilience and relevance as an institution. Whether through the César Chávez Multicultural Center, the Martin Luther King Jr. Equity Center, or the Maya Angelou Training Center, we are here to ensure each member of our LCC community feels seen, uplifted and respected, as shown in our daily actions throughout all of our LCC campuses.

We believe that diversity is not an obligation to fulfill—it is a strength to embrace and celebrate. Diversity exists the moment two or more people come together. Our task is to deepen inclusion, secure belonging, and dismantle the barriers that have too often left some on the margins. We will continue to wrap love and support around communities that have been historically excluded, while remaining grounded in the shared humanity that unites us all. The legacies of the leaders selected as our center icons, César Chávez, Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr., and Maya Angelou--and so many others-- remind us that we are not alone in this work. Their words still call us to action, just as the lived realities faced by members of our campuses compel us each day. It is up to each of us to hear what is being voiced, to listen, to learn from what is being revealed, and to lead with courage and compassion. Let us continue building a culture where dignity is non-negotiable, equity is visible, and justice is more than a concept--by showing love, respect, and care through our everyday actions. I look forward to the conversations, the challenges, the celebrations, and the progress we will make.

Together, we can.

With appreciation and commitment,
Tanya McClain

Interim Chief Diversity Officer
Office of Empowerment