Local philanthropy leader releases book, sparks community conversation

Kristina Joy Carlson, an Oxford author and longtime philanthropy professional, released Outrageous Kindness on December 15. Published by Streamline Media of Kansas City, the book is available at Square Books in Oxford and through major retailers including Amazon and Barnes and Noble, and it has been picked up by several international sellers. A public signing and conversation is scheduled for 5:30 p.m. on January 29 at Square Books, where Carlson will appear with poet and writer Beth Ann Fennelly.

Carlson has lived full time in Oxford for 17 years and brings more than three decades of experience in philanthropy, fundraising and nonprofit leadership to the book. She is also the founder of Outrageous Kindness, a consultancy that helps individuals, businesses and organizations align values with action through philanthropy and fundraising strategies. The book challenges readers to view kindness as an intentional and potentially disruptive force, aimed at individuals seeking greater purpose, workplace teams looking to improve culture, and young people considering how to define success.

For Lafayette County the release combines cultural and economic impacts. Square Books will host the signing, a public event that can draw local residents and visitors and that supports the independent bookstore economy. Local author events commonly boost foot traffic and sales for nearby businesses, and the participation of a nationally and internationally distributed title raises Oxford’s profile as a regional literary hub. The January event also creates an opportunity for nonprofits and community leaders to hear directly from a practitioner with extensive fundraising experience, potentially influencing local philanthropic strategies early in the new year.

The timing matters as well. With the book now in circulation and a public program set for late January, local organizations planning fundraising calendars and community programming can consider coordinated events or discussions that build on the book’s themes. Carlson’s emphasis on translating values into action aligns with ongoing conversations in the nonprofit sector about measurable impact, donor engagement and workplace culture.

Readers interested in the book can purchase Outrageous Kindness at Square Books or through major retailers online. The public signing at Square Books will take place at 5:30 p.m. on January 29 and will feature Carlson in conversation with Beth Ann Fennelly. The event provides a direct way for Lafayette County residents to engage with philanthropic ideas that Carlson argues are central to personal purpose and organizational effectiveness.