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SALT LAKE CITY — In its quest to become a top public university in the nation, the University of Utah on Thursday named bestselling author and social scientist Arthur Brooks as an impact scholar at its Kem C. Gardner Policy Institute.
"Not that we needed to thoroughly vet him, but he did certainly meet all the checklist of what we wanted in terms of an impact scholar," University of Utah President Taylor Randall said, describing Brooks as "someone who took a positive view on society."
Brooks will spend three to four days each semester participating in guest lectures, roundtable discussions with state and local officials and consulting with university and community leaders.
He will serve as an impact scholar for the next three years.
"We welcome the opportunity to bring the unique expertise and insights of Arthur Brooks to Utah," Randall said in a statement. "As an impact scholar, Brooks will share real-life strategies for bringing people together to have a positive impact our campus, community and state."
One of Brooks' areas of expertise?
Happiness. He even teaches a class at Harvard centered around attaining and maintaining happiness.
His recent book, "From Strength to Strength," is a New York Times bestseller showing readers how to accept the gifts of the second half of life with "grace, joy and ever-deepening purpose," according to the U.
"Arthur speaks to audiences all around the world about human happiness and works to raise well-being within private companies, universities, public agencies and community organizations," Utah House Speaker Brad Wilson said Thursday.
Additionally, Brooks is a columnist for the Atlantic and host of the "How to Build a Happy Life" podcast.
Brooks' first visit to the Beehive State in his official capacity as impact scholar began Tuesday and has consisted of him spending time with university trustees, Gardner Institute staff as well as state and local officials.
"I'm excited about the opportunity to spend a few days at the University of Utah as a visiting impact scholar," Brooks said. "Utah and Salt Lake City are leaders in policy, culture and higher ed. I'm honored to establish more connections with this wonderful community."
