A Conversation About Midlife: Anna Quindlen with President Cristle Collins Judd

Free and open to the public
On campus and streaming online

The Signature Learning Community at Sarah Lawrence College is thrilled to present Pulitzer Prize-winning journalist, novelist, and memoirist Anna Quindlen in a lively and inspiring conversation about midlife and the chapters it brings. Part of SLC100: The 2026–2027 Presidential Event Series, the event will bring Quindlen together with President Cristle Collins Judd to consider the joys, challenges, and opportunities of midlife and beyond.

As Sarah Lawrence celebrates its centennial and looks toward its second century, the evening will also mark the launch of the College’s new Center for Midlife and Meaning, the latest expression of the College’s enduring belief that education is a lifelong process of discovery, growth, and transformation. Bringing the liberal arts into conversation with the lived experience of adults navigating change, the Center will offer opportunities for learning, reflection, conversation, and creative discovery. Whether work is shifting, children are leaving home, caregiving responsibilities are growing, retirement is approaching, or long-held interests are calling for renewed attention, the Center will provide a place to consider what is changing, what matters now, and what might come next.

Drawing on her works including the novels More Than Enough and Still Life with Bread Crumbs, memoirs and reflections Lots of Candles, Plenty of Cake and A Short Guide to a Happy Life, and the non-fiction call to action Write for Your Life, Quindlen will bring her characteristic wit, warmth, and insight to the questions at the heart of the new Center: How do we understand ourselves as our roles and responsibilities change? What gives life meaning now? And what new possibilities might emerge in the chapters still ahead?

Members of the in-person audience will have the opportunity to engage with Anna Quindlen in a question-and-answer session, with priority given to members of the Signature Learning Community. A book signing and reception will follow. Select books will be available for purchase, provided by Periwinkle Books in Bronxville.

Advance registration is required for this free event. In-person seating is limited to 300 and available on a first-come first-served basis, so don’t delay!

Those registering to attend virtually will receive a Zoom link 24 hours before the event.