The BIG Read Events
Fall 2026 Events
Join us for events, discussions and activities inspired by the 2026–2027 BIG Read. Explore the schedule below for event details and ways to participate.
Sept. 3 | Confronting Perspectives: Climate Anxiety, Resilience, and Action
Thursday, Sept. 3
11:15 a.m.–12:15 p.m.
In person: College Hall 100 | View Google Maps Location | View Building Map
Virtual: Join via Zoom
Climate change is more than a scientific issue—it also shapes how we think, feel and imagine the future. Join an interdisciplinary panel of experts, including Dr. Marian Moore, Professor of Social and Behavioral Sciences; Joe Duda, Instructor of Philosophy; Dr. Lydia Ann Ghuneim, Instructor of Biology; and Vickie Heck, Director of Counseling Services, as they explore the emotional, ethical, social and environmental dimensions of climate change. Together, we’ll discuss how people respond to uncertainty, why hope and resilience matter and what meaningful action can look like in our communities.
Whether you’re passionate about environmental issues or simply curious about the conversation, this engaging discussion offers new perspectives and practical insights for everyone.
This is part of Owens Community College’s 2026–2027 BIG Read: Climate Change and Anxiety: Building resilience, fostering belonging, and discovering how small actions can create meaningful change.
Make a $12 or more donation to The BIG Read and receive a copy of the book. Cash or check only.
Sept. 10 | BIG Booked & Beyond: Book Club with TRIO
Thursday, Sept. 10
noon-1 p.m.
College Hall 158 | View Google Maps Location | View Building Map
Join us for a welcoming lunchtime conversation about A Field Guide to Climate Anxiety by Sarah Jaquette Ray. Together, we’ll explore the book’s ideas, share perspectives, and discuss how we can move beyond fear and overwhelm toward resilience, hope and meaningful action. No expertise is required—just curiosity and a willingness to join the conversation.
This is part of Owens Community College’s 2026–2027 BIG Read: Climate Change and Anxiety: Building resilience, fostering belonging, and discovering how small actions can create meaningful change.
Sept. 23 | The BIG Blackout Bunker Escape Room
Wednesday, Sept. 23
9:30 a.m.–12:30 p.m.
College Hall 170 (Toledo-area Campus Library) | View Google Maps Location | View Building Map
The power is out. Resources are limited. Time is running short.
Can your team work together to solve puzzles, make difficult decisions and prepare for an uncertain future before time runs out? Inspired by this year’s BIG Read theme, this interactive escape room challenges participants to think critically, communicate effectively, and discover how resilience, collaboration and creativity can help us face complex challenges. Gather your team and see if you can escape before the blackout wins!
This is part of Owens Community College’s 2026–2027 BIG Read: Climate Change and Anxiety: Building resilience, fostering belonging, and discovering how small actions can create meaningful change.
Oct. 8 | BIG Book Debate
Thursday, Oct. 8
10 a.m.–noon
In person: College Hall 100 | View Google Maps Location | View Building Map
Virtual: Join via Zoom
Does climate anxiety motivate action—or create paralysis? Is individual action enough, or should the focus be on systemic change?
Join students, faculty, and staff for a lively debate inspired by A Field Guide to Climate Anxiety. Participants will examine multiple perspectives, challenge assumptions and engage in thoughtful dialogue about some of today’s most important environmental and social questions based on the cases in the BIG Book Debate Case. Come ready to think critically, listen respectfully, ask questions and perhaps even change your mind.
This is part of Owens Community College’s 2026–2027 BIG Read: Climate Change and Anxiety: Building resilience, fostering belonging, and discovering how small actions can create meaningful change.
Oct. 15 | BIG Booked and Beyond: Book Club with the Tutoring & Learning Commons
Thursday, Oct. 15
noon-1 p.m.
College Hall 170 (Toledo-area Campus Library) | View Google Maps Location | View Building Map
Continue the conversation with fellow readers at our second BIG Read book club. Whether you’ve attended previous events or are joining for the first time, this discussion offers a chance to reflect on A Field Guide to Climate Anxiety, connect with others, and explore practical ways to transform concern into hope and action. Everyone is welcome, regardless of where you are in the book.
This is part of Owens Community College’s 2026–2027 BIG Read: Climate Change and Anxiety: Building resilience, fostering belonging, and discovering how small actions can create meaningful change.
Fall and Spring Semesters | Let’s Talk BIG with Jane and Jen
Fall and Spring Semesters
Radio Air Times
Thursday and Friday: 7 a.m. | 10 a.m. | 7 p.m. | 10 p.m.
Sunday: 9 a.m.
YouTube Air Times
Thursday: 6 a.m.
Owens Community College Radio, RSS.com or the OCCR YouTube Channel.