From OWENS COMMUNITY COLLEGE
Owens Community College will host Saeed Jones, from Ohio, to discuss his recent memoir, “How We Fight for Our Lives,” the 2021–22 Owens Big Read selection. This hybrid in-person and virtual event culminates the year-long exploration of Jones’ book, which has included a series of radio talks, ongoing events on campus and at local public libraries, and service projects. communities related to reading.
Led by award-winning English teacher Jen Hazel and Director of Library Services Jane Berger, the Owens Big Read program raises awareness of different perspectives through books and accompanying activities on campus and in surrounding communities. Accordingly, “How We Fight for Our Lives” chronicles Jones’ own journey as a queer black man raised in Texas. Since its publication in 2019, the book has won numerous accolades, including the Kirkus Prize for Nonfiction and inclusion on Time magazine’s list of must-have books.
“Throughout this academic year, Saeed Jones’s telling of his personal story has sparked conversations, connections, and new understanding on our campuses and beyond,” said Dr. Dione D. Somerville, President of the Owens Community College. “We are delighted to welcome Mr. Jones to wrap up the Big Read experience of his memoir and consider its implications for our own lives. I am also proud to congratulate Professor Hazel and Director Berger for their leadership of this year’s program and look forward to seeing what next year’s big read will bring.
WHO: Author Said Jones
WHAT: The Big Read Presents: Saeed Jones
WHEN: Thursday April 28
OR: CFPA Theater (10:00 a.m.), Toledo Campus; and Education Center 111 (1:30 p.m.), Findlay Area Campus
LINK: https://owens-edu.zoom.us/j/83905535192 (10am only)
