Honors_Newsletter_Fall2020

Chris Arnade, author of ‘Dignity: Seeking Respect in Backrow America,’ Delivers the Larry and Julie Poeppel Family Common Read Lecture The 11 th annual Common Read book selection was “Dignity: Seeking Respect in Backrow America ,” written by Chris Arnade. “Dignity” documents Arnade’s incredible journey through America’s Back Row with detailed interviews, photographs, and stories from those facing inequality, poverty, and addiction. The author travels throughout America to listen to individuals’ stories, build friendships through communication, and show the rest of the world the dignity and resilience America’s Back Row possesses. Arnade’s work has appeared in the New York Times, Atlantic, Guardian, Washington Post, Financial Times, Wall Street Journal, and many more. He is a successful freelance writer and photographer that takes his readers on a true story journey to share the lives and experiences of Back Row America. Prior to Dignity, Arnade was a successful Wall Street bond trader for 18 years until 2011 when his normal neighborhood walks transformed into an opportunity to hear stories from those that wanted to share their lives with him. These moments began a whole new life for Arnade, and these individual stories ultimately created “Dignity: Seeking Respect in Back Row America.” The Larry and Julie Poeppel Family Common Read Lecture took place on Wednesday, Oct. 14, and was slightly different this year due to the COVID-19 pandemic. Arnade was unable to physically attend the lecture on Northern State University’s campus, but we were still fortunate to hear further details about his story, the book, and passion through a live-streamed event. Students had the opportunity to ask Arnade questions and learn from his experiences and knowledge. One of the areas he repeatedly encouraged students to focus on is taking the time to listen to people and hear their side of the story. He explained that you do not need to agree with every person you meet, but the very least you can do is take the time to understand their behavior. He also heavily encouraged students to get out of their comfort zone by explaining how rewarding it is to involve oneself in a new experience, even if you do not think you would like it. Students, faculty, staff, alumni and community members truly enjoyed the opportunity to hear Arnade speak because it allowed them to connect with the author, book and overall story better. One of the students attending, Sheldon, explained that “He (Chris Arnade) went in really deep about some of the people he met that he didn’t put into the book.” Northern State University Honors Program is extremely grateful to the Common Read Committee for picking this book and helping organize this event. A big thank you to Chris Arnade for taking the time to teach and share the value and respect Back Row America deserves. Lastly, we want to thank the NSU IT and Communications departments for their work in ensuring this event could take place this year. Northern State University Honors Newsletter 3