Bag Lunch Book Group

All members of the Saint Anselm College community are invited to attend a book discussion of "The Dream Hotel" by Laila Lalami.

Copies of the book are available to borrow at the Circulation Desk.

Date: Thursday, September 24, 2026 
Time: 1:00 - 2:00 p.m. 
Location: Library Classroom, upper level of Geisel.

Attendees are welcome to bring their lunches to the book group meeting.

Description:

"Sara has just landed at LAX, returning home from a conference abroad, when agents from the Risk Assessment Administration pull her aside and inform her that she will soon commit a crime. Using data from her dreams, the RAA’s algorithm has determined that she is at imminent risk of harming the person she loves most: her husband. For his safety, she must be kept under observation for twenty-one days.

Eerie, urgent, and ceaselessly clear-eyed, The Dream Hotel artfully explores the seductive nature of technology, which puts us in shackles even as it makes our lives easier. Lalami asks how much of ourselves must remain private if we are to remain free, and whether even the most invasive forms of surveillance can ever capture who we really are" (Goodreads.com).

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Could artificial intelligence undermine the human-centered approach of Catholic health care? Or could it actually free Catholic clinicians to more faithfully advance the healing ministry of Jesus Christ? 

Join Prof. Shaun Slusarski of the Theology Department as he shares his insights from the Catholic Health Association’s March 2026 conference, “Artificial Intelligence, Authentic Mercy: Navigating AI Ethics in Catholic Health”.

Shaun Slusarski is a faculty member in the Theology Department. His research focuses on Catholic social teaching and bioethics.

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Conspiracy theories have been part of American political life from the beginning. Drawing from his recent book, Conspirator in Chief: The Long Tradition of Conspiracy Theories in the American Presidency, Knott examines presidents throughout American history who promoted or circulated political rumors and falsehoods, exploring how such claims have been used to undermine opponents and influence public opinion.

He will offer examples ranging from Thomas Jefferson to Donald Trump, as well as presidents who shunned conspiracy mongering and appealed instead to what Abraham Lincoln called the “better angels of our nature.”

Books may be purchased in advance through online or local booksellers. A book signing will follow.

This event is free and open to the public. No advance registration required.
 

Bio:

Dr. Stephen Knott is an Emeritus Professor of National Security Affairs at the United States Naval War College in Newport, RI and is the Thomas & Mabel Guy Professor of American History and Government at Ashland University. Prior to accepting his position at the Naval War College, Knott was Co-Chair of the Presidential Oral History Program at the Miller Center of Public Affairs at the University of Virginia. He is the author or co-author of eleven books examining with the American presidency, the early republic, and American foreign policy. His most recent book, Conspirator in Chief: The Long Tradition of Conspiracy Theories in the American Presidency, was published in 2026.

Our three-part exhibition series, Grace & Favor - Art and Philanthropy at the Chapel Art Center, will celebrate the history and illustrate how art and philanthropy can work together to drive progress.

Opening Reception: Thursday, September 24 at 5:00 p.m.

Professor Christian Gregory, Education Department

We invite you to participate in the upcoming Learning Liberty Colloquium, hosted by the Center for Ethics in Society and facilitated by Philosophy Professor Tom Larson. 

This event promises a weekend of thoughtful study, reflection, and engaging conversations about the writings of Frederick Douglass. 

Students will read 75-100 pages in preparation for this colloquium and will receive a $150 stipend for their participation. 

Food will be provided.

Apply today →