The BIG Read Events
Fall 2026 Events
Confronting Perspectives: Climate Anxiety, Resilience and Action
Thursday, Sept. 3
11:15 a.m.–12:15 p.m
College Hall 100 | View Google Maps Location | View Building Map
Virtual | Link TBA
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—Dr. Marian Moore, Professor of Social and Behavioral Sciences; Joe Duda, Instructor of Philosophy; 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.
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.
Copies of the BIG Read book, A Field Guide to Climate Anxiety: How to Keep Your Cool on a Warming Planet by Sarah Jaquette Ray will be on sale for $15. Cash or check only.
Email Jennifer Hazel with questions.
BIG, Booked & Beyond: Book Club with TRIO
Thursday, Sept. 10
noon-1 p.m.
College Hall 100 | 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.
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.
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!
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.
The BIG Book Debate
Thursday, Oct. 8
10 a.m.-noon
College Hall 100 | View Google Maps Location | View Building Map
Virtual | Link TBA
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 at the link below. Come ready to think critically, listen respectfully, ask questions, and perhaps even change your mind.
BIG Booked and Beyond
Thursday, Oct. 15
Details TBA
“Let’s Talk BIG w/ Jane and Jen”
Thursdays, Fall and Spring Semesters
7 a.m. | 10 a.m. | 7 p.m. | 10 p.m.
Owens Community College Radio, RSS.com or the OCCR YouTube Channel.