“Ethics and Values in the Era of AI” is an initiative of Seton Hall University’s Center for Catholic Studies, presented in partnership with the International Academy of Catholic Leaders. It brings students, educators, professionals, Catholic leaders and community members into conversation about artificial intelligence and its implications for individuals, institutions and society.
Rooted in Seton Hall University’s Catholic mission, the initiative asks not only what AI can do, but how technological innovation can serve human dignity and the common good.
"Magnifica Humanitas and Our Shared Future
Perspectives from Education, Finance and Healthcare"
Saturday, October 24, 2026
Chancellor’s Suite, Bishop Dougherty University Center
Seton Hall University
| Program: 9 a.m.–4 p.m. | , Chapel of the Immaculate Conception
October 2026 Seminar
On October 24, 2026, Seton Hall University’s Center for Catholic Studies and the International Academy of Catholic Leaders presented Ethics and Values in the Era of AI: Magnifica Humanitas and Our Shared Future. Presentations explored how AI can serve human dignity and the common good across education, finance and healthcare, with virtual access to presentation sessions and facilitated table discussions for in-person participants.
Presenters/Speakers
Education Panel
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Sebastian Budinich — Doctoral Candidate in Theological and Social Ethics, Fordham University; teaches theology at Fordham University and Manhattan University.
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Chris Tyrrell — Risk Management Executive; Founder, Classical Intelligence
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Douglas C. Minson, M.A. — Chief Academic Officer, Classical Intelligence
Finance Conversation
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Danielle Papandrea — Managing Director, Merrill Wealth Management
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In conversation with Gloria Garafulich-Grabois, DHS — Director, G.K. Chesterton Institute for Faith & Culture
Healthcare Presentation
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Elena Herrero — Executive Manager to the CEO, SOMOS Community Care
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Diego Ponieman, MD, MPH — Primary Care Physician, James J. Peters Department of Veterans Affairs Medical Center
Program Leadership
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Sir Mario J. Paredes — President, International Academy of Catholic Leaders
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Patrick Manning, Ph.D. — Director, Center for Catholic Studies at Seton Hall University
Morning Master of Ceremonies and Education Panel Moderator -
Gloria Garafulich-Grabois, DHS — Director, G.K. Chesterton Institute for Faith & Culture
Afternoon Master of Ceremonies and Finance Conversation Moderator -
Elena Herrero — Executive Manager to the CEO, SOMOS Community Care
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Lori Tarke, DHSc — Executive Director, Joseph A. Unanue Latino Institute at Seton Hall University
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Samuel McDonald — Program Manager, Center for Catholic Studies at Seton Hall University
Who the Initiative Serves
The initiative welcomes:
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Seton Hall students, faculty, staff and alumni
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Educators and academic leaders
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Healthcare professionals
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Finance and business professionals
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Catholic leaders and parish communities
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Anyone interested in the ethical and human dimensions of AI.
No technical background in artificial intelligence is required.
Building on the January 2026 Seminar
The October seminar builds on Seton Hall’s January 30–31, 2026 "Ethics and Values in the Era of AI" seminar. Participants particularly valued its Catholic ethical framing, small-group discussion, diverse perspectives and practical applications of AI. The October format responded by devoting more time to cross-sector dialogue and shared reflection.
