Explore the power of artificial intelligence in everyday life—join Lake Forest College professors Dr. Benjamin Zeller and Dr. Rachel Whidden for the return of this highly-acclaimed community engagement series
Artificial Intelligence and Everyday Life: Understanding, Engaging, and Applying AI
October 15 – November 12, 2026
Thursdays, 6 – 8:30 p.m.
Artificial Intelligence is rapidly changing how we learn, work, create, communicate, and make decisions. Held at the historic Krebs Center for the Humanities, this five-week series offers an accessible introduction to AI while exploring the ethical, social, cultural, and philosophical questions it raises – through demonstrations, discussion, and real-world case studies designed to help participants become informed and thoughtful users of these emerging technologies. Each week will highlight a new topic and begin with a social reception featuring food and refreshments.
Both the educational content and social receptions will offer opportunities to build community, engage with College leadership, and learn more about ongoing campus initiatives.
Community
- Lifelong Learning
- Writing by the Lake
- Lectures at Lake Forest Place
- Office of Community Education
- Forester Elevate Program for Local Businesses
- VITA Tax Program
- Meeting and Event Facilities
- Upcoming Public Events
- MLS Courses Offered in 2026-2027
- Gym Membership
- Forester Athletics
- Hire a Forester
- Donate
- Campus Map
Reserve your spot
Registration fee: $450 for the five-week series.
Registration deadline: Thursday, October 8
Participants are encouraged to attend all sessions, but full attendance is not required.
Series details at a glance
When
Five-week series held on Thursday evenings from 6 – 8:30 p.m.
Dates: October 15, October 22, October 29, November 5, November 12
Where
Krebs Center for the Humanities, located near Lake Forest College.
The address will be provided upon registration.
Who should attend
Open to all community members and alumni—no prior experience with AI required.
Cost
$450 for the five-week series. Participants are encouraged to attend all sessions, but full attendance is not required.
Learn more about the series
Artificial Intelligence is rapidly changing how we learn, work, create, communicate, and make decisions. This five-week series offers an accessible introduction to AI while exploring the ethical, social, cultural, and philosophical questions it raises – through demonstrations, discussion, and real-world case studies designed to help participants become informed and thoughtful users of these emerging technologies.
Instructor
Benjamin Zeller, Irvin L. & Fern D. Young Presidential Professor of Religion, Co-Project Director for HUMAN grant on AI and ethics, expert on technology and culture, and a researcher on the impact of science and technology on religious and spiritual beliefs.
Rachel Whidden, Associate Professor of Communication and Chair of Journalism, Co-Project Director for HUMAN grant on AI and ethics.
What you'll learn
- A user-friendly introduction to how AI works (no math or programming required)
- Key debates around AI ethics, misinformation, automation, and bias
- How AI is reshaping industries, from creativity, healthcare, education, and more
- Practical experience with leading AI tools for writing, image creation, communication, and productivity
- Real-world case studies on how individuals and businesses are adapting to AI
Why take this course?
Because AI is here and knowing how to use it wisely is now part of being an informed citizen. This course strikes a balance between thoughtful critique and hands-on experimentation. It’s designed for thinkers, creators, entrepreneurs, and anyone curious about how to live and work more thoughtfully with emerging technology.