The Center for Economic and Civic Learning (CECL) at Ball State invites you to an evening with Emily Esfahani Smith, one of today’s leading voices on meaning, purpose, and human flourishing.
- Date: Tuesday, April 14, 2026
- Time: 7:00–8:30 p.m.
- Location: Ball Brothers Foundation Hospitality Suite, Emens Auditorium
- Admission: Free and open to the public
This event is now just two weeks away. Make plans to attend and bring a friend, colleague, or student.
We are living through a paradox: even as the pursuit of happiness has intensified, rates of anxiety, loneliness, and disconnection continue to rise, especially among students and young adults. Drawing on research across psychology, philosophy, and the social sciences, Smith argues that meaning -not happiness- is the foundation of a life well lived. Her work identifies four core pillars of meaning: belonging, purpose, storytelling, and transcendence. Together, these offer a framework for resilience, identity, and a deeper sense of direction in an uncertain world.
The first 100 registrants will be entered into a drawing for one of 20 complimentary copies of The Power of Meaning. Five attendees will be selected for a private dinner and small-group conversation with the author. Faculty are encouraged to incorporate the event into courses through reflection, discussion, or co-curricular engagement.
Register Today