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NREM Reads

NREM Reads initaitiveNREM Reads is a community-wide common read program within the Natural Resource Ecology and Management Department that seeks to elevate conversations around Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion in the department. Through the initiative, we seek to engage the NREM community of learners and scholars in important conversations about inclusion and diversity in the natural resources discipline.

2022 NREM Reads Activities

During Fall 2022, NREM Reads will be fostering dialog on the beautiful writing of Dr. Robin Wall Kimmerer in her book titled Braiding Sweetgrass: Indigenous Wisdom, Scientific Knowledge and the Teachings of Plants. This website will be updated with more information on the initiative and related activities throughout the semester. Planned activities include:

  • NREM 505: Braiding Sweetgrass Discussion Group - This graduate-level course will discuss the book and create additional learning opportunities within the department and natural resources discipline related to the initiative. Contact Dr. Miranda Curzon for more information.
  • A faculty and staff discussion group is planned to discuss the book. Contact Dr. Adam Janke for more information.
  • NREM students may request a free copy of the book by completing this form.
  • Find access to the e-book from Parks Library at this link.
  • More activities will be announced soon!

Past NREM Reads Activities

The initiative started in 2020 with the book The Home Place: Memoirs of a Colored Man's Love Affair With Nature by Dr. Drew Lanham.

On Thursday October 22nd, 2020 The Home Place author, Dr. Drew Lanham gave a presentation titled "Coloring the Conservation Conversation" in the NREM-sponsored Errington Lectureship. Dr. Lanham is a Clemson University professor, wildlife ecologist, poet, and author. You can view a recording of the lecture by visiting this page.

100 free copies of The Home Place were distributed to NREM students interested in participating in the common read program and associated events. Purchase of the books was funded by faculty in NREM.

A graduate level discussion course explored the book and the topics covered therein. Students and faculty involved with the course led department functions promoting the book and lecture.

Reading and lecture discussion groups and community conversations were held among students and faculty surrounding the book.

Products from the 2020 initiative

Contact information

The NREM Reads Initiative is a function of the NREM Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion Committee. For more information or to ask questions on the initiative, contact committee chair Adam Janke.