2026 Commencement Speaker

Arthur C. Brooks 

Dr. Arthur C. Brooks is not a naturally happy person..

And yet, he is one of the world’s leading experts on the science of human happiness—appearing in media and traveling the world to teach people in private companies, universities, public agencies, and faith communities how they can live happier lives and bring greater well-being to others.

Brooks, Harvard Business School professor, long-time conservative thought leader, and, since 2023, a University of Utah Impact Scholar, will draw from his extensive writings about the search for happiness and meaning to inspire the Class of 2026.

Brooks’ newest book, “The Meaning of Your Life: Finding Purpose in an Age of Emptiness,” was released on March 31. In it, Brooks addresses the modern crisis of meaninglessness and offers his practical, science-based approach to finding purpose. Brooks takes on the technological changes he says have rewired our brains with a six-part plan, including his unique blend of philosophy, faith and social science, to combat a sense of emptiness with renewed focus and a search for fulfillment.

“Getting happier is a skill like any other,” Brooks wrote in his inaugural column for The Free Press. The self-described “miserable wretch” continued, “to get enduringly happier, you need to understand the science, change your habits and behavior in tangible ways, and explain what you have learned to others.”

“For the first time in my life, I feel I have a sacred vocation: To lift others up and bring them together. Life feels richer than it ever did, more alive, more full of love.”

Brooks is the author of 16 books, including The New York Times No. 1 bestsellers, “Build the Life You Want,” co-authored with Oprah Winfrey, and “From Strength to Strength: Finding Success, Happiness, and Deep Purpose in the Second Half of Life.”

In his role as an impact scholar at the U, Brooks visits the state each semester and meets with students, staff, faculty, business and community leaders and elected officials to share insights about human flourishing. In that role, he’s addressed the State Legislature, Utah League of Cities and Towns, the U’s Council of Academic Deans and higher education partners at Brigham Young University and Utah Valley University.