Arapahoe Libraries will host a four-part Community Conversation Series in 2025. These facilitated conversations are for guests to reflect on their own experiences and learn from the experiences of others. Each conversation is guided by an expert facilitator and diverse thought leaders who invite us to explore these topics more deeply. The series is designed to spark connection and promote listening and understanding.
Navigating AI Advancements, Risks and Responsibilities
Thursday, February 27, 2025
6:00 PM – 7:30 PM
Join us for part one of the series where our facilitator, panelists and audience will have a conversation about navigating AI advancements, risks and responsibilities. Learn more about the panelists and facilitator below.
Meet the Panel
Sumanth Channabasappa
Sumanth Channabasappa is an entrepreneurial leader and venture investor known for driving innovations in telecom, cybersecurity, digital health, and smart cities. With 50+ patents and publications, he specializes in pioneering innovations across internet tech, cloud, AR/VR and AI. As Founding President of The CORE, he scales growth-stage companies and expands enterprises into new markets. At 3Lines, he leads seed+/Series A deal flow and mentors globally.
Ted Vial
Ted Vial is Vice President of Innovation at the Iliff School of Theology, where he runs the Innovation Lab. He is also the “What is a Human, Really?” Officer at the Iliff AI Institute, and Professor of Theology and Modern Western Religious Thought. He teaches and publishes about artificial intelligence and theories of human nature, among other things. He leads the AI TRUST project, which offers guidance to governments and other organizations on the ethical deployment of AI systems.
Sheena Kelly
Sheena Kelly is a professional librarian with nearly fifteen years of experience in the field. Passionate about lifelong learning and an iterative process of inquiry, she has developed a strong portfolio on the intersection of technology and library services. Her dedication to technology-infused libraries has driven her exploration of innovative solutions, particularly in the realm of artificial intelligence. Her work has led her to present at conferences and workshops on the topic, highlighting both the powerful potential and possible pitfalls surrounding its use. She currently serves as the Digital Media Literacies Coordinator for Thompson School District.
Event Facilitator
Angela Engel
Angela Engel, M.A., is a facilitator, writer and educator. She is a force for positive change with more than three decades of experience engaging communities, catalyzing action and empowering voices. Her books and articles shed light on critical social issues and offer practical solutions. Engel teaches graduate studies for the at-risk and alternative education program at Marian University preparing future educators to make a difference in the lives of underserved students. As the director of an education nonprofit, Angela has led numerous successful initiatives improving the lives of countless individuals and communities locally and nationally. Through Colorado State University’s Family Leadership Training Institute, Angela has empowered over 1,500 people with the skills and knowledge to advocate effectively for their communities. Whether working with small groups or large gatherings, Engel creates inclusive and inspiring spaces where everyone feels heard and valued. Her expertise in conflict resolution and consensus building helps diverse stakeholders collaborate effectively to achieve shared goals. She brings an authentic voice to the decision-making table, transforms lives through education and advocacy, and leaves a lasting positive impact on the communities she serves.
Community Roundtable
Advancing Technology in the 21st Century
March 12, 2025
What is a Community Roundtable?
Community Roudtables are an exciting new initiative designed to foster open dialogue and discussion among diverse members of the community. Building on the success of our Community Conversations, these roundtables create in-person and authentic opportunities for communication and collaboration.
Each roundtable is structured around a broad theme, related to the previous Community Conversation, with three corresponding discussion prompts. Unlike the Community Conversations, which feature dialogue between a facilitator, expert panelists, and program attendees, the Roundtables break attendees into smaller groups of 6-10. These groups engage in round-robin style discussions, guided by a trained staff facilitator at each table.
Our goal is to promote a culture of inclusion, connection, and conversation. We often find that community members want to continue the conversation after the event, and the roundtables provide the perfect opportunity to do so. Attendance at the previous conversation is not required, making these events accessible to all.
Add a comment to: Community Conversation Series: Part One