The Common Read is a program developed by the Office of Student Success, Equity and Innovation at Cal Poly Pomona. Each academic year, Cal Poly Pomona's First Year Experience (FYE) Committee accepts nominations and selects a book for inclusion in the program. All CPP students, staff, faculty, and friends of the university are encouraged to read and engage with the same book. This engagement builds a community conversation around diverse and important topics. The Common Read is also a component of the university's FYE courses. Often there are university hosted events surrounding the topic or author of the book. FYE also hosts an annual essay contest which provides students an opportunity to contribute their thoughts and ideas to the campus conversation.