BGSU In the Round at 577: Gathering Around Stories

This March, 577 is honored to host a Community Reads Gathering as part of Bowling Green State University’s In the Round series, a speaker and engagement program centered on Indigenous voices, creativity, and our relationships with the natural world.

Community Reads Gatherings invite participants to come together around shared texts and ideas, creating space for thoughtful conversation, reflection, and connection. Whether you have read the selected essay in advance or are joining to listen and learn, all are welcome.

Community Reads Gathering

Thursday, March 19
6pm–7pm
Virginia’s House at 577 (577 East Front St., Perrysburg)
Free and open to the public; No registration required

This gathering will explore the essay “The Sacred and the Superfund” from Braiding Sweetgrass by Robin Wall Kimmerer. The discussion will be led by Lucinda Hunter, Teaching Professor in the Department of English at Bowling Green State University, and will focus on themes of environmental responsibility, justice, and reciprocal relationships with the land.

Please note: Dr. Robin Wall Kimmerer will not be attending this event.

To explore the full lineup of In the Round events, including additional programs connected to Dr. Kimmerer’s work, visit the BGSU In the Round webpage.


March StoryWalk®: Bud Finds Her Gift

March’s featured StoryWalk® selection at 577 is Bud Finds Her Gift, a children’s picture book by Dr. Robin Wall Kimmerer, illustrated by Naoko Stoop.

The story follows a young Native American girl named Bud, who believes she lacks a special gift like the rest of her family. With guidance from her grandmother, Bud learns that noticing, appreciating, and giving thanks for the gifts of the Earth is a meaningful gift in itself. The book explores themes of gratitude, reciprocity, belonging, and care for the natural world.

577’s StoryWalk® is a year-round trail around the circumference of the grounds, featuring 20 signposts with pages from a rotating children’s picture book. Titles are selected to reflect the values at the heart of 577, including nature, science, kindness, generosity, inclusivity, and belonging.

The StoryWalk® Project was created by Anne Ferguson of Montpelier, Vermont, in collaboration with the Kellogg-Hubbard Library. StoryWalk® is a registered service mark owned by Ms. Ferguson.

Click here to learn more about 577’s StoryWalk®.


Through reading, conversation, and time spent outdoors, these March offerings invite the community to slow down, listen, and reflect together. We hope you will join us for the Community Reads Gathering, explore the StoryWalk®, or experience both during your visit to 577.

More Posts

Coming Home to Mother Earth

Coming Home to Mother Earth

In this Earth Month reflection, Executive Director Heather Gallant shares moments of wonder that bring us closer to the Earth—from astronauts viewing our blue planet from space to the first native blooms of spring at 577. A thoughtful piece on gratitude, reciprocity, and coming home to the natural world.

577 Staff Spotlight: Etta Gallaway

577 Staff Spotlight: Etta Gallaway

Meet Etta Gallaway, 577’s Program Intern, whose passion for art, ecology, and community shines through in everything she does. From installing the StoryWalk® to welcoming guests and leading classes, Etta brings curiosity, creativity, and a deep love for the natural world to her role. Learn more about her journey and what inspires her work at 577.

Summer Youth Workshops at 577

Summer Youth Workshops at 577

Summer is just around the corner, and we’re excited to welcome young learners back to 577 for a season of creativity, exploration, and hands-on discovery. This year’s lineup offers opportunities for both budding artists and young musicians to grow their skills in a supportive, inspiring environment. Whether working with clay or making music, each program is designed to spark curiosity, build confidence, and create meaningful experiences.

Spring Classes Are Open — April & May Offer Creative, Hands-On Experiences for All!

X