September is Literacy Month — a time to reflect on the many ways literacy enriches our lives. While often defined simply as the ability to read and write, literacy reaches much further. It includes comprehension, critical thinking, communication skills, financial understanding and even the ability to navigate the digital world. 

For Phi Kappa Phi, literacy aligns closely with our mission: “Let the love of learning rule humanity.” By fostering literacy in all its forms, we empower individuals to learn, grow and contribute to their communities. This month, we highlight articles from the Spring 2022 and Summer 2022 issues of Forum that explore literacy from unique perspectives. 

The Spring 2022 issue of Forum celebrates the joys and challenges of reading and writing, reminding us how the written word shapes our lives. 

In the Spring 2022 issue, Heather Cass White invites readers to consider books not just as entertainment but as lifelong companions in her article “Books Promiscuously Read: Reading as a Way of Life”. She explores how reading choices and habits shape our identity and worldview. For Literacy Month, her piece reminds us that literacy is a practice that continually deepens our lives. Read the full article here. 

In “Reading to My Mother”, featured in the Spring 2022 issue, Phyllis Theroux shares a deeply personal story of reading aloud to her mother as her eyesight faded. What began as a practical necessity became a ritual of comfort, memory and connection. This article highlights literacy as not only a skill but also a gift, a way of sustaining relationships and love through words. Read the full article here. 

Together, these articles celebrate literacy as both a private practice and a shared experience, encouraging us to embrace reading in ways that enrich both mind and heart. 

The Summer 2022 issue explores practical literacies, skills that extend beyond books into the workplace and everyday life. 

In the Summer 2022 issue, Stephen J. Dubner explores the power of financial literacy in his article “To Make Financial Goals More Real, Write Them Down”. Dubner argues that the simple act of writing down financial goals turns vague aspirations into concrete plans. He shows how this form of financial literacy — putting thoughts into words and structuring them — can lead to better outcomes. This piece reminds us that literacy is not just about reading books but also about using language and clarity to shape personal decision-making. Read the full article here. 

Philip Eubanks’ essay “Writing Emails: An Essential Skill for the Workplace”, featured in the Summer 2022 issue, reminds us that even everyday writing carries weight. Eubanks discusses how email remains a fundamental form of communication in professional settings and how writing with clarity, appropriate tone and correctness matters. The article provides tips and insights on improving written communication every day. It highlights writing literacy as a practical skill that opens doors at work and builds credibility. Read the full article here. 

Literacy Month reminds us that the ability to read, write and communicate is at the heart of personal and professional growth. Whether you are journaling about a book, reading aloud to someone you love, writing a thoughtful email or setting financial goals, you are practicing forms of literacy that matter. 

By embracing literacy in all its forms, we honor Phi Kappa Phi’s commitment to lifelong learning and ensure that the love of learning continues to rule humanity.