Event Details
- Tuesday, April 14, 2026
- 7:00–8:30 PM (EDT)
- Emens Auditorium – Ball Brothers Foundation Hospitality Suite
- 1800 W. Riverside Avenue, Muncie, IN
- Free and Open to the Public
Register Here
Full Event Description
The Center for Economic and Civic Learning (CECL) at Ball State University will host bestselling author and internationally recognized speaker Emily Esfahani Smith for a public talk exploring purpose, belonging, and the foundations of a meaningful life.
In an era marked by rising anxiety, social fragmentation, and questions about purpose, Smith’s work offers a powerful and research-grounded framework for understanding what truly sustains individuals and communities. Drawing from psychology, philosophy, and cultural analysis, she explores how meaning -not happiness alone- serves as the foundation for resilience, civic responsibility, and human flourishing.
Smith is the author of The Power of Meaning: Crafting a Life That Matters and is widely known for her TED Talk, “There’s More to Life Than Being Happy,” which has been viewed millions of times worldwide. Her work has been featured in major national publications and institutions, and she speaks regularly to universities and leadership communities across the country.
The program will include a 50-minute keynote presentation followed by audience Q&A.
Ideal for students, faculty, and community members engaged in questions of purpose, leadership, and civic responsibility.
As Ball State continues to advance its commitment to student thriving, democratic engagement, and meaningful community impact, this event invites the campus and broader community into a timely and substantive conversation.
Faculty are encouraged to share this event with students or offer extra credit or reflective assignments.
Register Here