The Office of Inclusive Excellence and Belonging invites members of the University community to participate in the Voices, Values, Visibility Community Book Read of Mattering: The Secret to a Life of Deep Connection and Purpose by Jennifer Breheny Wallace.
Centered on the idea of mattering, defined as feeling valued and adding value, this initiative offers an opportunity to reflect on belonging, connection, and the ways we contribute to our campus community. These themes align closely with our shared institutional values of gratitude, dignity, and respect, and support our ongoing commitment to fostering a campus culture grounded in belonging, recognition, and meaningful connection.
Beginning in March and continuing into April, community members may join weekly, chapter- and theme-based discussions facilitated by colleagues from across the university. Each session is designed to spark conversation, deepen reflection, foster meaningful dialogue, and inspire individual action.
Community members are invited to attend the first discussion on Monday, March 9 from 12:30 p.m.–1:30 p.m. in the Woods Classroom, Mortensen Library. This session will introduce the mattering core and foundational ideas explored in Chapters 1 and 2. Additional program details, including discussion topics, session dates, and locations, will be shared in the coming weeks.
A limited number of gifted copies of the book will be available to members of the university community. If you are interested in receiving a copy, please contact Karen Schermerhorn at kschermer@hartford.edu.
Those who are interested in obtaining their own copy may do so here: Mattering: The Secret to a Life of Deep Connection and Purpose
Whether you have read the book, are currently reading, or are simply curious about the concept of mattering, you are welcome to participate. All that is needed is an interest in conversation and community. Join us in exploring how mattering shapes our experiences, our relationships, and our campus culture.