About the Program

Boston University’s Common Read program was launched in fall 2025 to create a unifying experience and establish a new tradition for the University. A University-wide reading program helps build connections, encourages conversation, and develops friendships among community members, especially our students. We hope the BU Common Read serves as an opportunity for the entire Terrier community of students, faculty, staff, and alumni to engage with a compelling title, whether here in Boston or beyond.

How We Choose a Book

The Common Read aims to select a book that will resonate with the whole University, and we’re especially grateful for the leadership of BU Libraries in guiding the book selection. A team from BU Libraries reviews books from a list of suggested titles, each member reading several books. Their group then meets for weeks to discuss their thoughts about the suggested titles and the various advantages and disadvantages of each selection.

The recommendations are then presented to a staff and faculty committee led by the Office of the Provost and the Office of the Dean of Students. After careful review, more reading, and input from current students, they submit a final book recommendation to University leadership for approval.

Common Read Selection Committee Members:

  • Amie Grills, Associate Provost for Undergraduate Affairs, Co-Chair 
  • Jason Campbell-Foster, Dean of Students, Co-Chair
  • Joseph Bizup, Associate Dean for Undergraduate Academic Programs and Policies, Associate Professor, CAS
  • Katie Steele, Assistant Provost for Undergraduate Advising
  • Laura Johnson, Senior Assistant Provost for Undergraduate Affairs
  • Melissa Holt, Director, Kilachand Honors College
  • Natalie McKnight, Professor, CGS
  • Nancy Martinsen, Associate Dean, Office of the Dean of Students
  • Hannah Pereira, Director of Orientation, Office of the Dean of Students
  • Danielle Sopko, Senior Director, Office of the Dean of Students

Learn More

Please contact us if you have additional questions about the program or this year’s selection.