Common Read

Common Read/Common World is a voluntary learning initiative based on a shared learning experience of students, faculty and community members.

The program was developed for all USA students, particularly first-year, and aims to:

• Improve understanding of differences and commonalities across the world;
• Develop more sophisticated understanding of values and ethics;
• Increase awareness of global issues;
• Gain an understanding of how to make an impact in society;
• Engage in academic discourse and critical thinking; and
• Create a sense of community among students, faculty, staff, and the greater Mobile area.

Events and speakers will be scheduled throughout the academic year. This will enable students and faculty to engage critically with the ideas and themes of the book. Common Read/Common World is a university-wide program, and a partnership between Academic Affairs and Student Affairs.

The Common Read/Common World Committee

The Common Read/Common World committee is made up of students, faculty and staff throughout the university. Email questions and comments to commonread@qqzhangui.com.

2024 - 2025 Common Read/Common World Steering Committee

Ellen Harrington, Co-Chair
Professor and Chair, Department of English

Michael Wilkinson, Co-Chair
Assistant Vice President, Division of Student Affairs

Robert Coleman
Assistant Dean, College of Arts and Sciences and
Interim Chair, Department of Communications

Jia He
Associate Librarian, Marx University Library

Lisa LaCross
Associate Director, Faculty Development, Innovation in Learning Center

Kim Lovvorn
Associate Director, Creative Services

Sarah Waddell
Assistant Director, Marketing and Communications

Joy Washington
Director, Public Relations