Ally Education Series

The Ally Education Series provides a forum for self-education and a safe space for honest dialogue for those seeking to be allies. Through common book reads, faculty, staff, alumni, and students explore a range of topics including understanding stereotypes and unconscious bias, becoming effective allies, and developing anti-racism mindsets. Each book reading includes multiple small group dialogue sessions with faculty and staff advisors who have attending training sessions to be effective facilitators. Many books also culminate with a community event with the author to further explore themes discussed within the book.

Common Reads Books

  • Claude M. Steele

    Whistling Vivaldi: How Stereotypes Affect Us and What We Can Do

    Claude M. Steele, who has been called “one of the few great social psychologists,” offers a vivid first-person account of the research that supports his groundbreaking conclusions on stereotypes and identity. He sheds new light on American social phenomena from racial and gender gaps in test scores to the belief in the superior athletic prowess of black men, and lays out a plan for mitigating these “stereotype threats” and reshaping American identities.

  • Heather McGhee

    The Sum of Us: What Racism Costs Everyone and How We Can Prosper Together

    What would make a society drain its public swimming baths and fill them with concrete rather than opening them to everyone? Economics researcher Heather McGhee sets out across America to learn why white voters so often act against their own interests. Why do they block changes that would help them, and even destroy their own advantages, whenever people of color also stand to benefit? McGhee marshals overwhelming economic evidence, and a profound well of empathy, to reveal the surprising truth: even racists lose out under white supremacy.

  • Pamela Newkirk

    Diversity, Inc.: The Fight for Racial Equality in the Workplace

    In Diversity, Inc., award-winning journalist Pamela Newkirk shines a bright light on the diversity industry, asking the tough questions about what has been effective–and why progress has been so slow. Newkirk highlights the rare success stories, sharing valuable lessons about how other industries can match those gains. But as she argues, despite decades of handwringing, costly initiatives, and uncomfortable conversations, organizations have, apart from a few exceptions, fallen far short of their goals.