Open to any faculty/staff at George Mason University, these virtual, one-hour book discussions are designed to foster conversation and connection around well-being topics. We provide a free copy of the book to registrants.
Discussion Groups
Registration links for 2026-2027 are forthcoming.
Fall 2026
Awe: The New Science of Everyday Wonder and How It Can Transform Your Life by Dacher Keltner
Learn how awe can transform our brains and bodies, examine the meaning and influence of awe across history and culture, and explore how you can cultivate awe in your everyday life.
Monday, September 28, 2026, at 12 noon via Zoom
Or
Wednesday, October 28, 2026, at 12 noon via Zoom
Spring 2027
The Joy of Movement: How Exercise Helps Us Find Happiness, Hope, Connection, and Courage by Kelly McGonigal, Ph.D.
Movement can be a source of joy. Learn how movement is intertwined with self-expression, social connection, and mastery and how you can create happiness, meaning, and connection through movement.
Tuesday, February 23, 2027, at 12 noon via Zoom
Or
Thursday, April 8, 2027, at 12 noon via Zoom
This program is sponsored by the Center for the Advancement of Well-Being. Direct any questions to Zareena Khan at [email protected].
Past Book Discussions
- The Happiness Advantage: How a Positive Brain Fuels Success in Work and Life by Shawn Achor
- Platonic: How the Science of Attachment Can Help You Make – and Keep – Friends by Dr. Marisa G. Franco
- Together: The Healing Power of Human Connection in a Sometimes Lonely World by Dr. Vivek Murthy
- The Other Significant Others: Reimagining Life with Friendship at the Center by Rhaina Cohen
- Project UnLonely: Healing Our Crisis of Disconnection by Jeremy Nobel, MD, MPH