Each year our staff assists hundreds of students on their journeys toward achieving personal educational goals. Led by our Board of Directors, we are united by our passion and purpose: ensuring everyone in our community is empowered with the ability to read.
Staff Team
​Brian Babiasz, Executive Director
With The Reading People since 2022 and Executive Director since 2025, Brian works to expand literacy access—especially for new Americans and adult learners—and credits the staff’s dedication as the heart of the organization’s impact.
Harrison Hamlin, ESL Coordinator
With the Reading People since 2024, Harry is passionate about people. He enjoys supporting both ESL learners and their goals. He attends MSU while pursuing his master's degree in human resources.
Sue Hulteen, Book Building Lead
With the Reading People since 2018, Sue carries a passion for working with students, volunteers, and staff to spread the love of reading.
Jamie Lu, Student Intern
Joining The Reading People for 2025 and 2026, Jamie is a current Senior at Michigan State majoring in Human Development and Family Studies. She is passionate about helping individuals build their literacy skills.
Meredith McDonnell, Volunteer Coordinator
With The Reading People since 2023, Meredith manages volunteer recruitment and resources, bringing a passion for literacy, equity, and community service. She is pursuing a master’s in Library Science to further expand access to information.
Theresa O'Donnell, Reading Specialist
With The Reading People since 2023, Theresa serves as a Reading Specialist, assessing adult learners and training new tutors. She also supports book donations and events, and loves helping people learn in any capacity.
Jalen Shafer, GED Coordinator
​With The Reading People since 2024, Jalen guides students through testing and preparation while pursuing his master’s in social work at MSU. He is passionate about supporting the community and helping learners achieve their goals.
BOARD OF DIRECTORS
Sheila Potter, Chair
Sheila Potter began her career as a middle and high school English and speech teacher before serving as an elementary reading specialist. A former tutor with The Reading People, Sheila now serves on the Board and brings decades of expertise in literacy education and nonprofit leadership.​​​​​​
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Regina Crudup
Regina Crudup is a retired Legislative Affairs Analyst with the Michigan Education Special Services Association. She brings extensive experience in policy, advocacy, and education support to The Reading People’s Board and is committed to advancing literacy and empowering learners in the Lansing community.
Don Keller
Don Keller is a retired publishing executive with over 40 years of business leadership experience. A Vietnam-era U.S. military veteran, he joined The Reading People’s Board in 2024 and also serves as a Trustee for his local public library, continuing his commitment to supporting literacy and lifelong learning,
Kelly Gruner, Secretary
Kelly Gruner is a retired social worker and former public health nurse with decades of experience serving families and communities. A longtime volunteer with The Reading People, she became Board Secretary in 2023 bringing a passion for literacy rooted in her professional and family background.​​​​​
Jerry Hodak
Jerry Hodak is an award-winning broadcast journalist with over 50 years of experience in radio and television news reporting. He has produced public service announcements for The Reading People and developed educational programming for the Michigan Department of Environment, Great Lakes, and Energy, bringing a long-standing dedication to community education and literacy outreach.
Annette Shauver
Annette Shauver is a retired English teacher who dedicated 38 years to teaching seventh-grade language arts. A longtime volunteer tutor with The Reading People, she has also held leadership roles with the Girl Scouts and brings a lifelong passion for reading and education to her service on The Reading People’s Board.
Jill Dehlin, Treasurer
Jill Dehlin is a registered nurse, public health educator, and former professor with more than 25 years of experience at Okemos Public Schools, Central Michigan University, and Michigan State University. A nationally recognized advocate in the headache and migraine field, she brings a strong background in education and advocacy to The Reading People’s Board.
Judge Paul Jones
Judge Paul Jones is a U.S. Administrative Law Judge with more than 17 years on the bench and 40 years of legal practice experience, primarily as a trial lawyer. A retired Captain in the U.S. Navy Judge Advocate General’s Corps, he joined The Reading People’s Board after serving as a volunteer tutor and remains committed to advancing education and literacy in the community.