Finding Purpose in Stressful Times: Strengthening Well-Being in an AI-Transformed World
Presenting the “Virtues for Well-being” Seminar Series
We are excited to present “Virtues for Well-being”: a year-long seminar series exploring how core virtues—such as gratitude, kindness, compassion, and humility—promote psychological, physical, and social well-being. Throughout the year, we’ll delve into the science and practice of cultivating virtues across diverse contexts, discussing their definitions, measurement, and impacts on health outcomes at both the individual and societal level. This interdisciplinary series will bring together thought leaders and practitioners to examine evidence-based strategies and interventions that foster virtues, highlighting the dynamic relationship between individual and community flourishing. Join us to discover the transformative potential of virtues in building resilient, thriving communities.
We launched this seminar series with Dr. Victor Strecher, Professor at the University of Michigan School of Public Health and a pioneering leader in health behavior, digital health communication, and well-being. Dr. Strecher’s seminar, titled “Finding Purpose in Stressful Times: Strengthening Well-Being in an AI-Transformed World”, was held on September 24th, 2025.
Event Description
A large body of scientific evidence now demonstrates that a strong sense of purpose is associated with greater emotional regulation and resilience. Purpose as a health-related asset seems particularly important in our current times. In an era of social uncertainty and technological disruption, how do we not just survive but thrive? In this presentation, Dr. Strecher explores how cultivating purpose serves as a protective factor for mental health and resilience, particularly as AI reshapes how we work and live. The relationship between technology and purpose is more dynamic than we might expect. Dr. Strecher discusses the possibility that we can harness AI-driven technologies to enhance our sense of purpose and help us live more purposefully.
Speaker Biography
Victor J. Strecher, PhD, MPH, is Professor at the University of Michigan (UM) School of Public Health and Founder & CEO of Kumanu, Inc., a leading digital platform for intentional wellbeing. A national leader in behavior change and digital health, Dr. Strecher has reached millions of lives through pioneering ventures, including HealthMedia (acquired by Johnson & Johnson) and the UM Center for Health Communications Research. He is a widely recognized researcher, author, and public speaker, with multiple national and international awards, including two Smithsonian Awards and Innovator of the Year at UM. His recent online course, “Finding Purpose and Meaning in Life,” was ranked among the world’s top online courses by Inc. Magazine and has enrolled over 250,000 people. Dr. Strecher’s current work, including books, TED talks, and digital tools, continues to advance wellbeing and purpose on a global scale.
Speaker Information
Victor Strecher, PhD, MPH
Organizers
ⓘ Harvard Chan School hosts a diverse array of speakers, invited to share both scholarly research and personal perspectives. They do not speak for the School, and hosting them does not imply endorsement of their views, organizations, or employers.