The Politics of Well-Being, presented in partnership with Penn’s School of Social Policy & Practice.

This year-long series, presented in partnership with the School of Social Policy & Practice, will explore how social policies and programs surrounding individual and community health shape political life. The series will examine how policies name and divide political actors, how they influence understandings of democratic institutions and values, and how efforts to improve societal well-being raise critical philosophical and political questions. 

Upcoming Events

All events will take place on Thursdays, 4:30-6:00 PM (unless otherwise noted). Refreshments provided.
Registration is preferred for all events. Registration links will be shared in the weeks before the event.

·       Oct 16, 2025: Tech and Well-Being
With Dennis Culhane & Shana Kleiner


How do emerging technologies influence our sense of well-being? From predictive analytics in social services to the role of social media in youth mental health, this event explores both the promises and perils of data-driven systems. Featuring experts in AI, homelessness policy, and digital sociology, we’ll discuss how technology is reshaping care, community, and democracy.

·       Nov 20, 2025: Economics and Well-Being
With Amy Castro & Ioana Marinescu 


Economic policy isn’t just about numbers—it’s about people. This session delves into the economic foundations of well-being, from labor protections and social safety nets to the politics of universal basic income. Our speakers will examine how economic structures and incentives shape human flourishing, inequality, and democratic participation.

·       Jan 22, 2026: Identity and Well-Being
With Amy Hillier & DeMarcus Jenkins 


How do race, gender, sexuality, and other aspects of identity influence well-being? This conversation centers on how identity-based disparities are embedded in social policy, housing, education, and healthcare systems. Our speakers will explore how intersectional approaches to well-being can illuminate paths toward greater justice and inclusion.

·       Feb 19, 2026: Place and Well-Being
With Millan AbiNader, & Alice Xu


Where we live matters. This panel explores the geography of well-being: how neighborhood infrastructure, environmental justice, urban design, and housing access shape physical and mental health. We'll look at how place-based policies can foster or undermine equitable outcomes — and how communities reclaim agency over space.

·       Mar 19, 2026: Health and Well-Being
With Tamara Cadet, Jacqueline Corcoran, Meredith Doherty, Malitta Engstrom & Jennifer Prah

This event takes a deep dive into health as a cornerstone of well-being. From mental health to public health systems, the panel will explore how health policy reflects our political priorities and ethical commitments. With interdisciplinary voices from social work, public health, and policy, this conversation will assess the challenges and innovations shaping health equity today.

Full details and registration links will be shared closer to each event date.

Past events:

·       Sept 18, 2025: Civil Society and Well-Being
With Ram Cnaan, Femida Handy, and Katherina Rosqueta. Moderated by Carleigh Douglas

What role do civil society organizations play in shaping well-being? Join us as we explore how nonprofit institutions, faith-based organizations, and philanthropic foundations contribute to — and sometimes complicate — efforts to improve public welfare. Drawing from real-world examples, our panel will consider how resource distribution, civic engagement, and policy implementation intersect in pursuit of collective well-being.