Fairfield University’s Quick Center announces four influential speakers in Open VISIONS Forum fall line-up

Fairfield University’s Regina A. Quick Center for the Arts is excited to announce four major speakers in this season’s roster of the Philip I. Eliasoph Open VISIONS Forum (OVF). These speakers run the gamut from media authorities who are household names to a national interfaith thinker and an international AI expert. Now celebrating its 28th season, OVF has been a trusted source offering audiences time with the world’s thought leaders – and the important insights that help them better understand the world’s key issues and make informed choices.

Only a sampling of the series’ fall offerings, this group of four speakers will all appear over the course of just 11 days—from Wednesday, October 22, through Sunday, November 2. In addition, this fall Quick Center audiences will enjoy authors and art experts in the more intimate OVF: Espresso events, as well as “An Evening with Padma Lakshmi,” featuring the Emmy-nominated producer, television host, and food expert.

Some of these inspiring speakers are also part of Fairfield University’s thought-provoking America250: The Promise and Paradox initiative—a yearlong series of arts and cultural programming to mark the U.S. semiquincentennial. Events include performances presented by the Quick Center, as well as talks and productions sponsored by departments and programs across campus.

Fall OVF highlights include

Wednesday, October 22, 7:30 p.m.

A Conversation with Eboo Patel, PhD

Eboo Patel, PhD, founder and president of Interfaith America, will discuss the necessity of understanding and accepting different religions in modern-day America. Named “one of America’s best leaders” by U.S. News and World Report, Dr. Patel served on President Obama’s Inaugural Faith Council, has written five books, and holds a doctorate in the sociology of religion from Oxford University.

Monday, October 27, 7:30 p.m.

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A Conversation with Scott Jennings

CNN commentator Scott Jennings, deputy director of political affairs under President George W. Bush, will use his trademark blend of humor and candor to deliver compelling arguments on today’s high-stakes political issues. Dubbed “The Black Sheep of CNN” by the Daily Mail, Jennings advised four presidential campaigns and taught at Harvard’s Kennedy School.

Wednesday, October 29, 7:30 p.m.

John Tasioulas: “The Human Rights Responsibilities of Business: The Difference that AI Makes”

University of Oxford Professor John Tasioulas, director of the Institute for Ethics in AI, will share an engaging and enlightening talk on the state of artificial intelligence. Tasioulas has written extensively on punishment, human rights, and international law and is the co-editor of The Philosophy of International Law and editor of The Cambridge Companion to the Philosophy of Law.

Sunday, November 2, 3 p.m.

Kaitlan Collins: “Good Ethics for Bad News: The New Red Lines of Broadcast Journalism Today”

Anchor of “The Source with Kaitlan Collins,” CNN White House Correspondent Kaitlan Collins has secured headline-worthy interviews with Secretary Hillary Clinton, Vice President-elect JD Vance, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, and Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy. Having covered both the Biden and Trump administrations, she will offer insights from the world stage.

The Quick is committed to our guests, ensuring prices are accessible to the whole community. Many of our live performances and lecture tickets are only $35, and $25 for Quick Members. To learn more about performances or becoming a Quick Center Member, visit quickcenter.com. To purchase tickets, contact the Quick Center Box Office at 203-254-4010, Monday through Friday, from 10 to 5 p.m.

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Party like it’s Y2K in Fairfield

Party like it’s 2000! This dance party at Fairfield Theatre Company will be packed with all your favorite 2000s anthems that you’ll be screaming at the top of your lungs. Step into The Warehouse with MC Paul Herman and immerse yourself in the sounds of the new millennium — when Outkast, Kesha, Beyoncé, Nelly, and Justin Timberlake ruled the charts,

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AMG Catering and Events in Wilton, Connecticut, is offering a fall series of cooking classes designed to celebrate seasonal flavors and global cuisine. Each class combines hands-on instruction with perfectly paired beverages, from wine and beer to creative cocktails, as participants learn to prepare a variety of savory and sweet dishes. From autumn-inspired comfort foods to festive holiday treats, these classes provide an interactive, fun experience for home cooks of all skill levels. Join AMG this fall to sharpen your culinary skills, explore new flavors, and enjoy delicious meals in a vibrant, social setting. Click here for more information.

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Fairfield University’s Quick Center announces four influential speakers in Open VISIONS Forum fall line-up