Organizational Structure of the Shared Reading Program
The Vice Chancellor and Provost (VCP) develops policy for the Shared Reading Program. Through the Shared Reading Committee, the VCP ensures that the program is implemented by all the undergraduate schools and colleges at Syracuse University, and the Division of Student Affairs.
The Shared Reading Committee is responsible for overall coordination of the program, including recommending the Shared Reading book; distribution to the campus community; and working with schools, colleges, and other units to implement curricular and programmatic activities. The Shared Reading Committee is also responsible for internal and external communication related to the Shared Reading Program.
-- Book Selection
The VCP appoints faculty and students to the Shared Reading Selection Sub-committee. Each spring, this sub-committee consults with the SU campus community as well as other organizations, including the CNY Reads Program, to obtain nominations for the Shared Reading title.
The sub-committee applies the following guidelines in selecting the Shared Reading book:
· the book should demonstrate a global theme or issue
· preference will be given to books written in the last 10 years and books that deal with current themes
· a living author will receive preference
· readability is important, but the book should also be challenging and worthy of intellectual critique and
· the theme of the book should be sustainable throughout the academic year
To nominate a book to the Selection Sub-committee, please email the book title and author to jlorourk@syr.edu by March 1.
-- Distribution
The Shared Reading book is distributed to select members of the campus community each year, beginning in late May. Each new undergraduate student receives a complementary copy at his/her home address. Schools, colleges, and other departments who use the Shared Reading book in their curricular or co-curricular offerings receive complimentary copies in proportion to the number of first year students served. Departments may purchase additional books at any time.
-- Integration, Programs and Classes
All departments at SU are encouraged to incorporate the Shared Reading book into opening week programs, activities throughout the academic year, and first year classes. In addition, all programs are encouraged to engage the greater Syracuse community through joint programs with organizations such as CNY Reads. A team from the SU Library develops a web-site for references and teaching tools related to the Shared Reading book.