Summer Reading Program Offers Engaging Experiences and Diverse Perspectives

Meredith College’s Summer Reading Program (SRP) typically offers various programs to support and complement discussions of the resources chosen each year. But the range of programming offered in 2024 is exceptional, said SRP Co-Director Ashley Hogan.

“This year’s theme is complex. I’m excited for our students to benefit from a rich array of programs to help them explore the topic from varied perspectives,” said Hogan.

The 2024 SRP theme is “Strong Voices: Empowering Student Citizenship.” The SRP is co-sponsoring a range of lectures and other programming this fall that relate to the theme.

Numerous departments have stepped up to provide thoughtful programs to help students engage as citizens of the Meredith community, the state of North Carolina, the United States, and beyond.

Students can participate in voter registration drives, attend presentations and lectures, participate in an interactive art presentation, submit an essay to a writing contest, volunteer for several service projects on and off campus, and more. The library is presenting an exhibit highlighting Meredith student activism over the years.

In addition, as members of the Meredith community, students are encouraged to run for election and vote for candidates for the College’s Student Government Association (SGA).

About SRP 2024

The 2024 Summer Reading Program is built around a central text, The Bill of Obligations by Richard Haass, which offers a straightforward and clear discussion of basic expectations for American citizenship.

The book was chosen to help demystify the democratic process for students and encourage them to take action to improve and uphold democracy. This year’s summer reading books were funded by Grubbs-Happer Book Endowment, which is administered by the History program.

In addition to the primary text, students are encouraged to watch videos, read articles, and listen to podcasts that address topics including women’s voting rights, how to have a constructive conversation, information literacy, and more. 

The supplemental materials are included on the SRP website, along with program dates and detailed descriptions.