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Strengthening Peer Connections and Social Responsibility
In addition to developing critical thinking skills, common reading programs
can support students’ transition and integration into a community (Ferguson, 2006;
Laufgraben, 2006). By providing a common intellectual experience, these programs
can ease the adjustment to college life and foster connections among new students.
Common reading programs foster civic engagement and social responsibility among
students, a key goal for UO’s undergraduate students (Fabian et al., 2023; Sweeney,
2019). Exploring themes related to social justice, diversity, and global issues can
motivate students to become active and responsible citizens who can contribute
positively to society. Further, exposure to a variety of texts and perspectives may
nurture intercultural competence, preparing individuals to navigate a globalized
world with respect and understanding (Fabian et al., 2023). UO Common Reading
activities and discussions provide opportunities for students to form connections
with peers and build other networks (Ferguson, 2006; Laufgraben, 2006). Through
themed reading selections, common reading programs raise awareness of global
challenges such as climate change, human rights, and social justice (Fabian et al.,
2023; Kennedy & Boyd, 2018; Sweeney, 2019). Engaging in shared intellectual
pursuits helps build relationships and create support networks within the university
community. These connections foster a positive and collaborative campus culture.

Who Participates
Participation in UO Common Reading has ranged from about 500 participants
in the program’s first year as a campus-wide opportunity (2014–2015) to upwards
of 6,000 with recent, highly acclaimed authors. Dozens of events and activities are
organized through the Division of Undergraduate Education and Student Success in
collaboration with units from across the institution. Collaborating units have included
the departments or degree programs in Art, Pre-Law, Psychology, Environmental
Studies, the Honors College, Journalism, Biology, English, Comparative Literature,
Asian Studies, Landscape Architecture, Business, Black Studies, Sociology,
Philosophy, Global Studies, and Indigenous, Race, and Ethnic Studies—as well as
many others. Activities have included livestreamed author talks with at least 500
participants, theater and dance performances, art and science exhibitions, and other
smaller talks, workshops, receptions, or seminars
with 5–50 participants. Technology has helped
extend the program’s reach and accessibility
beyond the boundaries of the university’s main By providing a common
campus. intellectual experience,
Students who choose to participate in the
program practice reading, analyzing, interpreting, [common reading] programs
and evaluating complex themes and ideas,
enriching their academic experience. Reading can ease the adjustment
and discussing complex texts cultivates critical to college life and foster
reading and writing skills essential for academic
achievement. Engaging in the Common Reading connections among new
Program prepares students for the academic
challenges they will encounter at UO by engaging students.
them in sometimes difficult discussions, writing

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