Join host Emma Watts on this episode of Along the Rock as she sits down with Robert “Bobby” White, Senior Director of Programs at Illinois Humanities, for a conversation about storytelling, community connection, and the importance of the humanities in today’s technology-driven world.

The discussion explores how Illinois Humanities creates free public programs across the state, supports local communities through grants and education initiatives, and helps bring people together through meaningful conversations about culture, history, literature, and shared human experiences.

Emma and Bobby also discuss:
• Why the humanities matter in the age of AI
• How conversation helps strengthen communities
• Free programs and opportunities available across Illinois
• The Odyssey Project and Gwendolyn Brooks Youth Poetry Awards
• Illinois Voices 250 and preserving stories from all 102 Illinois counties
• The importance of supporting rural and underserved communities

Learn more about Illinois Humanities: https://www.ilhumanities.org

Learn more about Illinois 250: https://illinois250.org

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