Promoting the Humanities throughout Campus and the Commonwealth

Our Year of The Human Algorithm

What does it mean to be human in the age of AI? Every technological revolution prompts a rethinking of human qualities and capabilities—now more than ever with the rise of artificial intelligence. Most global technology experts predict how humans live, think, feel, work, learn, create, and connect will be transformed over the next decade. As we grapple with the powers of AI, it is important to examine with equal vigor the traits that make us human. An investigation of being human in the twenty-first century compels us to “reinvest in the vocabulary of human value” as we anticipate the effects (both positive and negative) of humans’ adaptation to the digital future.

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Gaines Newsletter: Spring 2026

News and Upcoming Events

save the dates for these upcoming events 2026-2027 at the Gaines Center

Apr 30, 2027

Save the dates for these upcoming public and community events from the Gaines Center for the Humanities. All Gaines public events are free, but some may require advance registration. TUESDAY SEPTEMBER 1, 2026 Gaines kick-off to our Year of the Human Algorithm--a free screening and panel discussion of the 2013 movie "Her" starring Joaquin Phoenix and Scarlett Johansson.

featuring Gaines Director Dr. Michelle Sizemore The American Revolution a film by Ken Burns, Sarah Botstein, and David Schmidt

Sep 2, 2026

Gaines Director Dr. Michelle Sizemore will participate in a scholarly discussion of the Ken Burns, Sarah Botstein, and David Schmidt film, "The American Revolution," on Wednesday September 2, 6.00pm, in the Worsham Theater at Gatton Student Center. Dr. Sizemore will be joined by Dr. Vanessa Holden (History, AAAS), Dr. Jeremy Popkin (History Emeritus), and Dr. Hugo Reyes-Centeno (Anthropology) in a conversation on the impact of the revolution across 250 years. This event is part of the Department of History 1776 Series and is free and open to the public.

AN AI LOVE STORY FROM SPIKE JONZE "Her" Gaines' Kickoff to the Year of the Human Algorithm

Sep 1, 2026

Join us on Tuesday September 1 as we kick off the Gaines Year of the Human Algorithm with a free screening of Spike Jonze' AI love story, "Her," starring Joaquin Phoenix and Scarlett Johansson. Get there early for iced coffee, boba tea, and snacks (while stocks last) and stay for a chance to win a door prize! The movie screening begins at 6.00pm in the Worsham Theater, Gatton Student Center, followed by a faculty panel with Dr. Aria Halliday (GWS), Dr. Jordan Brower (English), Dr. Meg Wallace (Philosophy), Dr. Molly Blasing (MCLLC), and Dr.

now gathering interest forms The Root & Reed Collaborative A Gaines Center Cooperative

Aug 20, 2026

Sponsored by the Gaines Center Cooperatives program, the Root & Reed Cooperative are gathering interest for their upcoming basketry workshops. Baskets represent artisanship, craft, utility, and tradition, woven into human history across every culture and continent. The Root & Reed Cooperative will meet during the semester to discuss basketry and fiber arts, learn about specific basketry and basket-weaving techniques, and participate in a hands-on workshop. Scan the QR code to fill out an interest form.

faculty applications now invited The 2028 Bingham Seminar

Jul 31, 2026

Beginning July 31, the University of Kentucky Gaines Center for the Humanities will accept faculty proposals for the 2028 Mary C. Bingham Seminar, a unique opportunity to design and teach a humanities-focused course that pairs classroom learning with an immersive travel experience.

applications for 2026-2027 now open Gaines Mini-Grants