Indianapolis, Indiana – The University of Indianapolis is marking a decade of bringing literature and community together with the 10th annual Communiversity program, and this year, participants are invited to dive into the modernist classic To the Lighthouse by Virginia Woolf. Originally published in 1927, the novel will serve as the centerpiece for a low-cost, book-club-style course designed to engage students, alumni, faculty, staff, and local community members.
Running from August 25 through December 11, the Communiversity course offers a semester-long exploration of Woolf’s work, combining manageable weekly readings with online discussions and occasional lectures by UIndy faculty. The course format allows participants to study the novel at a comfortable pace while connecting with others who share an interest in literature.
“I hope that all Communiversity students will find something resonant in the novel,” said Dr. Jennifer Camden, professor and associate chair of the UIndy Department of English. “‘To the Lighthouse’ explores the tension between the older, Victorian generation and the next generation, tied together by family and summer vacation. Because the book is just 150 pages, it provides an accessible introduction to philosophy and aesthetic theory. For those intimidated by Modernist literature, ‘To the Lighthouse’ is a good entry point, and Communiversity’s online discussions will provide helpful support and context too.”
The course is designed to be accessible and inclusive. Anyone who has completed high school or an equivalent credential is welcome to participate, and the registration fee is only $10. This fee grants access to the online discussion forum and course materials, offering participants the opportunity to engage deeply with Woolf’s work without a significant financial commitment.
Over the past decade, Communiversity has grown into a popular platform for fostering dialogue, critical thinking, and community engagement through literature. By combining structured readings, guided discussions, and faculty lectures, the program provides a rare chance for readers to immerse themselves in complex texts while exchanging ideas with a broad spectrum of participants.
“Communiversity has always been about more than just reading a book,” said Dr. Camden. “It’s about building connections between people and encouraging thoughtful conversations. The 10th anniversary is a perfect opportunity to celebrate the power of literature to bring communities together.”
To the Lighthouse is particularly well-suited to this type of engagement. The novel examines the subtleties of family life, memory, and the passage of time, offering rich material for discussion and reflection. Participants will have the chance to explore themes of generational conflict, artistic expression, and personal growth, all while interacting with fellow readers in an online forum that encourages thoughtful commentary and shared insights.
Communiversity 2025 officially begins on Monday, August 25, with registration open through Sunday, August 24. Interested community members are encouraged to sign up early to secure their place in what promises to be an enlightening and engaging semester. With its blend of classic literature, accessible discussion, and community connection, this year’s program continues Communiversity’s mission of making literary exploration a shared, meaningful experience.
Whether longtime fans of Modernist literature or first-time readers looking for an approachable introduction, Communiversity 2025 offers participants a chance to immerse themselves in one of Virginia Woolf’s most celebrated works and to join a decade-long tradition of thoughtful conversation and community engagement.
