Hanrahan

The event featured an esteemed panel of Shepherd University faculty members: Sally Brasher, professor of history; Heidi Hanrahan, professor of English; and Stephanie Slocum-Schaffer, professor of political science.

Hannah Williams-McNamee, director of student support and transfer pathways, moderated the discussion.

The conversation highlighted student engagement with historical applications and interdisciplinary themes in the book and touched on the challenges of teaching from a politically charged text.

Slocum-Schaffer argued that a controversial book can be an asset to a Common Reading program, as it fosters critical discussion; however, she also acknowledged that the book’s strong stance posed challenges for fostering open dialogue.

Brasher

Hanrahan noted that some students were “frustrated” by the book’s perceived bias, observing that many students were dissatisfied with how both political parties have responded to current events, which led to critical discussions of the book’s treatment of both parties.

Brasher emphasized the importance of grounding discussions in a historical context and incorporating primary documents to examine the evolution of power in society.

A recurring theme of the discussion was the need to encourage students to become informed and engaged citizens.

Slocum-Schaffer underscored the importance of media literacy.

During the Q&A session that followed, community members shared their reactions to the book and discussed the need for advocacy and civil discourse.

Slocum-Schaffer

One student in attendance praised the historical analysis of the book presented in the classroom.