By David J. Roof—
MUNCIE, IN—At a time when many Americans report feeling increasingly anxious, disconnected, and uncertain about their sense of purpose, Ball State University is hosting a public event aimed at addressing those concerns through conversation, reflection, and research-based insight.
On Tuesday, April 14, Ball State will welcome Emily Esfahani Smith, bestselling author of The Power of Meaning, for an evening discussion on belonging, purpose, and what contributes to a meaningful life. The event will take place from 7:00 to 8:30 p.m. in the Ball Brothers Foundation Hospitality Suite at Emens Auditorium and is free and open to students, faculty, and community members.
Smith is a nationally recognized writer whose work has appeared in The New York Times, The Wall Street Journal, and The Atlantic. Her writing explores how individuals and communities can cultivate deeper meaning in a culture often focused on achievement and happiness alone. Her ideas have reached millions of readers and viewers, contributing to broader conversations about mental health, purpose, and human connection.
The April 14 event is designed not as a traditional lecture, but as a conversation that invites reflection on questions that resonate across communities: Why do so many people feel alone even when surrounded by others? What creates a sense of belonging? And how can individuals build lives grounded in meaning rather than constant pressure to achieve or perform?
Organizers note that these questions are especially relevant for college students navigating academic pressure and life transitions, but they also extend to the broader Muncie community, where issues of connection, well-being, and civic life continue to shape quality of life.
The event reflects Ball State’s broader commitment to fostering civic dialogue and community engagement by bringing nationally recognized voices to campus and creating spaces where students and community members can come together around shared concerns.
Seating is limited, and attendees are encouraged to register in advance.
Blog post: https://sites.bsu.edu/civics/emily-esfahani-smith-at-ball-state/
Registration: https://go.bsu.edu/register/?id=d521e58f-3bf5-4c7b-95c0-513afc976561
