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Common Reading

Each year, we invite all incoming students to read (and sometimes watch) a common reading that will be discussed together during NSO and in a series of events throughout the year that expand upon the ideas and theme.

2025 Common Reading

This year, our Common Reading features two powerful chapters from the graphic novel “This Place: 150 Years Retold.” This acclaimed work offers vital insights into Indigenous history and explores themes of futurity, inviting readers to reflect on complex narratives of identity and resilience.
The chapters were specially selected by our distinguished Native Scholar in Residence, Luhui Whitebear. Luhui (Coastal Band of the Chumash Nation, also with Huastec and Cochimi ancestry) is an Assistant Professor of Indigenous Studies at Oregon State University, deeply involved in community work focused on Indigenous rights, environmental justice, and cultural preservation. During NSO, you’ll have the unique opportunity to engage directly with Luhui Whitebear in a special Common Reading session, discussing these chapters and their profound relevance.
The selected chapters are:
  • “Migwite’tmeg: We remember It” (pages 193-219)
    • Author: Brandon Mitchell; Illustration: Tara Audibert; Colors: Donovan Yaciuk
  • “kitashkînaw 2350” (pages 247-278)
    • Author: Chelsea Vowel; Illustration: Tara Audibert; Colors: Donovan Yaciuk

How to Access the Reading

You can access both chapters online through our library. Please follow these steps:

  1. Click on the links below to go directly to each chapter.
  2. When prompted, click the “Current L&C students, faculty, and staff” button.
  3. Log in using your L&C username and password.

Chapter 1: “Migwite’tmeg: We remember It”

Chapter 2: “kitaskînaw 2350”

We encourage you to read these chapters before NSO to fully participate in the discussion with Luhui Whitebear and your fellow new students!

Past Common Readings

First-Year Experience is located in room 107 of Fowler Student Center on the Undergraduate Campus.
MSC: 155

email 

voice 503-768-7191 

Director of First-Year Experience
Jonathan Manz

First-Year Experience Coordinator 
Melanie McManamon 

  • First-Year Experience
    Lewis & Clark
    615 S. Palatine Hill Road 
    Portland OR 97219