Callings: The Purpose and Passion of Work, a StoryCorps book by Dave Isay, has been selected as the title for the 2025-26 Buffs One Read, a campus reading program sponsored by the University Libraries. Faculty are encouraged to integrate this inspiring title into their course curricula to enrich students' understanding of the profound impact of finding fulfillment in our lives.

Canvas course

Callings is a collection of unforgettable stories from individuals who have discovered their true calling. Some found their paths early in life, while others made significant changes later on, overcoming obstacles to pursue what truly matters to them. The stories were culled from the StoryCorps library by the founder of the organization, Dave Isay. StoryCorps has recorded and archived conversations from over 700,000 participants honoring the belief that everyone has an important story to tell.

“Buffs One Read offers a fantastic opportunity for first-year and transfer students to become part of the campus community and continue our one read traditions," said Robert H. McDonald, dean of the University Libraries and senior vice provost of Online and Extended Education. "The University Libraries are committed to providing students with opportunities to explore new perspectives that can expand their understanding of the world, while being a part of our campus annual traditions that cultivate community and a sense of belonging.”

Buffs One Read, now entering its 5th year, is specifically aimed at first-year and transfer students to encourage connection through shared intellectual experiences with members of the campus community. The program is open to the entire community and we encourage everyone to participate.

“Faculty can help students feel like successful members of the CU community by reading the Buffs One Read book together in our courses," said Shelly Miller, professor of Mechanical Engineering and chair of the Boulder Faculty Assembly. "I look forward to seeing how my colleagues embrace this opportunity to read with their students. I read Solito this year, and it was a powerful story. Callings, the title selected for this upcoming year will inspire us to embrace the many different perspectives of people working in America. And it will equip students, faculty and staff with the skills to interact meaningfully with individuals from various backgrounds.”

The Libraries offer a Canvas community course specifically designed to support the integration of the Buffs One Read title into any course on campus, as well as a research guide that highlights related resources. Programs and events that celebrate the Buffs One Read will be announced and shared in the next academic year.

We look forward to welcoming first-year and transfer students to campus for the 2025-2026 academic year and will provide each of them with a complimentary copy of Callings: The Passion and Purpose of Work. All other members of the community are encouraged to borrow the title from the Libraries collection.