The common reading book for fall 2014 is part of a legacy that has been inspiring people for over half a century. “This I Believe: The Personal Philosophies of Remarkable Men and Women” by Jay Allison and Dan Gediman branches from a radio series in the 1950s.

The book is a collection of 80 personal essays starting with the statement “This I believe…” People of all walks of life, from celebrities to Yellow Page advertisers, write the essays to an unknown audience.

The book will be distributed to incoming freshmen at summer orientation, giving new students something to talk about with their peers, faulty and staff.

“When you come to college, it’s always nice to kind of redefine yourself,” Dean of Students Cassy Bailey said. “I hope, for our freshmen especially, (the book will) give them a chance to find some sort of new identity and a new community.”

“This I Believe” was inspired by a 1950s radio series, in which people shared their beliefs and values. Among those who opened up were Harry S. Truman, Eleanor Roosevelt and Helen Keller.

It then evolved into a National Public Radio series in 2005 and continued for four years. It has since inspired books of the same name. Allison was the curator and host of the 2005 NPR version.

The purpose of the series from more than 60 years ago is basically the same for the 2005 edition. Both times the United States was at war and surrounded by worries. The show would express the beliefs of famous and everyday people, showing listeners there is still goodness in the world.

The Common Reading Committee sifted through 26 common reading book nominations in order to choose. “This I Believe” is the third book and third year of the common reading program. “The Last Lecture” by Randy Pausch and “Outcasts United” by Warren St. John precede “This I Believe.”

Judy Smrha, assistant dean for student engagement and success, and a member of the selection committee, wants the common reading program to involve the campus. Like the series of last lectures this year, the committee hopes to have a “This I Believe” series in the fall. Smrha thinks this series would help the campus get to know the next university president, Lynne Murray.