Distinguished Speakers' Series
Since 2021, the Foundation has been inviting famous authors and speakers as part of the Distinguished Speakers' Series, which is supported by a generous donation from former library trustee, Laurie Hogan. Below is a list of the Distinguished Speakers' Series events.
- January 2021: Dr. Ibram Kendi, author of How to be an Antiracist.
- October 2021: Co-sponsored Eric Klinenberg, author of Palaces for the People: How Social Infrastructure Can Help Fight Inequality, Polarization, and the Decline of Civic Life.
- September 2022: Dr. Sanjiv Chopra, speaker, author, and thought leader gave a talk on the four tenets of happiness. A recording of Dr. Chopra's talk is available.
- November 2022: Stephan Puleo, historian and best selling author, spoke about his latest book, Voyage of Mercy: The USS Jamestown, the Irish Famine, and the Remarkable Story of America's First Humanitarian Mission.
- March 2023: Hank Philippi Ryan, best selling author, discussed her writing style and new book, The House Guest.
- July 2023 - June 2024: Three programs on the topic of artificial intelligence were offered.
- Dr. Fabricio Murai from WPI gave an informative talk on the history and status of AI.
- Congressman James McGovern and State Senator Michael Moore delivered a stimulating presentation and discussion on proposed regulations around AI.
- Dr. Yvonne Masakowski guided the audience through the world of ethics and global security in the process of implamenting the power of AI.
- October 2024: Christ Bohjalian, best selling author, spoke on the process of storytelling.