A select group of Sacred Heart University faculty and staff members stirred the pot and opened eyes—and minds—at the school’s own version of a TED event held Wednesday afternoon, September 26. The theme of the independently organized “TEDx” presentation was “What Are We Worth?” and it attracted fellow faculty, administrators, students, media and community members to hear a team of five’s thoughts on different approaches to complex societal issues.

The final speaker was Steve Brown, speaking on “Brand You: Developing Purpose for Success in Business and Life.” A professor emeritus in management at SHU’s Jack Welch College of Business, Brown offered that how we value ourselves and each other has changed over time. For past generations, military service was key. Then, your profession became the measure of your value. Today, we are struggling to determine our value — the thing that makes us unique. How does one find his purpose? Brown said it sometimes comes from an experience. You can also have a business with a purpose and, those who do, perform better. Having a purpose also leads to longer life and supports optimal functionality. “We all feel good when we do something good, so go out and enjoy it,” Brown said to the gathering.