The 2016 Common Reading text was revealed February 2 at the 2nd annual Common Reading Reveal Party: Outcasts United by Warren St. John.
Outcasts United is a story of an unlikely soccer team consisting of refugees from all over the world that ended up in the same small, southern town. It is a story of resilience, creating community in the face of adversity, and the power of one person to make a difference.
UCF’s Common Reading Program, coordinated by the Office of First Year Experience, provides every incoming FTIC student with a copy of the book at Orientation, with the expectation for students to read the book during summer. Throughout the year students will have the chance to participate in exciting events related to the theme of the book that promote community and understanding of a diverse topic. One of the main events will be held September 27 at 6 p.m. in the Pegasus Ballroom when the coach from the book, Luma Mufleh, will address the UCF community.
“In addition to programming that will be planned for students, several classes will also incorporate the Common Reading Book into their courses,” said Abby Nobili, coordinator for FYE. “Strategies for Success will incorporate the book in all sections both summer and fall, and the Honor’s Symposium will also use the book during fall. We welcome any other faculty member who would like to use the book to contact our office about ways to partner.”
“SDES directors will also be provided a book by the Director’s Council,” said Erin Butler, director for FYE and chair of the Council. “One of Mufleh’s challenges is getting a diverse group of individuals to form a successful team. This is a great topic for directors to discuss and share strategies for doing this very thing within their own departments.”
For more information on the program, contact Abby Nobili at: abby.nobili@ucf.edu or visit: fye.sdes.ucf.edu/common-reading.