Office of the President
Campus Messages

Announcing My 2023 Summer Reading List

By Darryll J. Pines

Summer is here, and it's time to broaden our horizons through the power of books. Join me in exploring a captivating reading list that will expand our worldviews and ignite our intellectual curiosity.

I am excited to dive into the pages of these captivating books this summer. Each one holds the potential to educate, inspire and spark meaningful conversations. I will periodically share my thoughts on what I’m reading and encourage you to read along and share any insights, thoughts or feelings you have. Together, let us broaden our world this summer. Happy reading!

"Can We Trust AI?" by Terp Rama Chellappa book cover

The thought-provoking book "Can We Trust AI?" by Terp Rama Chellappa unravels the mysteries of artificial intelligence while examining how it will drive industries and shape lives in the future - ultimately questioning whether we can truly trust this rapidly advancing technology.
“The Climate Book: The Facts and the Solutions” by Greta Thunberg book cover

“The Climate Book: The Facts and the Solutions” by Greta Thunberg curates contributions from around 100 global experts from various fields to provide a comprehensive understanding of where we stand with the climate crisis and the necessary actions we need to take to prevent the worst of climate disasters.The pages within shed light on practical solutions and emphasize the collective responsibility we all share in mitigating the effects of climate change.
“The Exceptions: Nancy Hopkins, MIT, and the Fight for Women in Science” by Kate Zernike

“The Exceptions: Nancy Hopkins, MIT, and the Fight for Women in Science” by Kate Zernike is an inspiring story of sixteen remarkable female scientists who courageously confronted discrimination at MIT, leading to a nationwide reckoning on the pervasive sexism in science. Written by a Pulitzer Prize-winning journalist, this powerful account sheds light on the challenges these passionate women faced in their pursuit of respect, inclusion, and equality.
“How the Word Is Passed: A Reckoning with the History of Slavery Across America” by Clint Smith book cover

The completing #1 New York Times bestseller “How the Word Is Passed: A Reckoning with the History of Slavery Across America” by Clint Smith discusses the profound legacy of slavery and its enduring influence on our everyday lives. Through his travels to various locations such as plantations, memorials, cemeteries, museums, and prisons, Clint Smith will provide us readers with a candid and essential exploration of living history. With each page, we’ll gain a deeper understanding of the real, foundational history of slavery in America.
"On Freedom Road: Bicycle Explorations and Reckonings on The Underground Railroad" by David Goodrich

"On Freedom Road: Bicycle Explorations and Reckonings on The Underground Railroad" by David Goodrich is an extraordinary and unique story of Goodrich's travels along the multi-state routes of the Underground Railroad - all by bicycle. Along the way, Goodrich shares untold stories of the bravery and determination of those who marched to freedom.
"Your Brain on Art: How the Arts Transform Us" by Susan Magsamen and Ivy Ross book cover

"Your Brain on Art: How the Arts Transform Us" by Susan Magsamen and Ivy Ross explores the transformative power of art and how it impacts our brains, emotions and overall well-being. This engaging New York Times Bestseller sheds light on the profound ways art can enhance our lives and shape our understanding of the world.