By Kelsey Kendall

First Lady of Virginia Suzanne S. Youngkin will host an event welcoming award-winning researcher and New York Times bestselling author Arthur Brooks, Ph.D., at Old Dominion 91Ƶ from 7-8:30 p.m. on March 26 in Chartway Arena.

This event is the third installment of the Commonwealth Conversation series hosted by the First Lady to empower youth throughout Virginia with the knowledge and support to build fulfilling lives. This forum, titled “Building the Life You Want,” is an opportunity to learn how to recenter one’s life around four key elements: faith, family, friendship, and meaningful work. 

 “At a time when so many are searching for purpose, joy, and deeper connections, we are thrilled to talk with Arthur Brooks, a fellow Virginian, to share his invaluable insights on building a life filled with meaning," Youngkin said. "This Commonwealth Conversation will provide young people — and the communities that support them — with tools to foster faith, strengthen family bonds, cultivate friendships and pursue fulfilling work."

Dr. Brooks is a professor at the Harvard Kennedy School and Harvard Business School, teaching leadership, happiness and social entrepreneurship courses. Dr. Brooks is also a columnist at The Atlantic, where he writes a weekly “How to Build a Life” column. He co-authored a 2023 #1 New York Times bestseller with Oprah Winfrey, “Build the Life You Want: The Art and Science of Getting Happier,” and published the 2022 #1 New York Times bestseller “From Strength to Strength: Finding Success, Happiness, and Deep Purpose in the Second Half of Life.” He is recognized as one of the on the science of human happiness and frequently consults with companies and public agencies all over the world to share his research on human happiness.

“In the face of unprecedented levels of stress, uncertainty, and mental health challenges, university leadership, faculty, staff, and students are craving a new way forward in which they can enjoy a greater sense of meaning, purpose, and life satisfaction,” Dr. Brooks said. “I believe there is an opportunity for higher education to lead the way in promoting happiness across campus."

Old Dominion 91Ƶ President Brian O. Hemphill, Ph.D., emphasized the importance of hosting engaging and meaningful events that foster personal growth and community connection.

“Old Dominion 91Ƶ is honored to partner with First Lady Youngkin to bring Arthur Brooks’ transformative insights to our campus and the broader community,” President Hemphill said. “This forum aligns with our mission to support student success and holistic well-being, thereby better equipping individuals with the tools to thrive in all aspects of life.”

The event aims to bring together supportive systems, including families, church groups, school communities, colleges, after-school programs, mentors and business communities to hear from the nation’s leader on making strategic and thoughtful decisions for happiness and fulfillment. 

You may register for this free event .