KU Law to host Well-Being Summit

LAWRENCE — The University of Kansas School of Law will cohost a summit with Washburn University School of Law, bringing together communities to discuss how individuals can build a meaningful social life, combat workplace loneliness and create relationships at work and in their personal lives. This summit will feature Jeffrey Hall, communication studies expert and author of “The Social Biome: How Everyday Communication Connects and Shapes Us.”

The 2025 Well-Being Summit will take place Feb. 20 at the Burge Union. The summit, which is open to the public, includes a free CLE program and networking reception. Registration is required.

Register and learn more about the Summit.

Hall is a professor of communication studies at KU and a faculty associate at the Berkman Klein Center for Internet and Society at Harvard Law. His book "Relating Through Technology" was the recipient of several awards and was featured in The New York Times, The Washington Post and CNN. His upcoming book, "The Social Biome," with Andy Merolla, explores the complex ways in which our social health and well-being are intertwined. Hall has written several articles on building friendships and forming meaningful connections for The Wall Street Journal. He is the former chair of the Human Communication and Technology Division of the National Communication Association and the current chair of the Interpersonal Communication Division at the International Communication Association. He is also the director of the Relationships and Technology Lab at KU.

“Our summit will explore the critical role that social connection plays in fostering resilience, success and fulfillment in both professional and personal life,” said Leah Terranova, dean of academic and student affairs at KU Law. “Law school and practice can be demanding, isolating and stressful — but well-being is not a solo endeavor. Strong relationships — whether among peers, mentors, colleagues or loved ones — can support mental health, enhance professional growth and create a more inclusive and compassionate legal community. We are thrilled to collaborate with partners across the state who share our belief that connection isn’t just valuable — it’s vital.”