The Arnold Lecture

Lecture Date

September 22, 2026, 4:45—6:15 pm

Event Location

Cataldo Globe Room
429 E Boon Ave
Spokane, WA 99202

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The 2026 Arnold Humanities Lecture “Buddhist Cinema: The Medium and the Message” will be delivered by Dr. Francisca Cho, Professor of East Asian Languages and Cultures at Georgetown University.

Dr. Cho will share her insights into how Buddhist teachings emphasize the importance of using media to create transformative and meaningful experiences. This perspective invites audiences to appreciate cinema as a powerful vehicle for religious reflection. Dr. Cho will illustrate this central idea through a discussion of the popular movie Groundhog Day, exploring how this film’s narrative embodies Buddhist principles of repetition, transformation, and awakening.

This lecture is intended for general audiences and all are welcome!

Please RSVP here for refreshments.

The Arnold Distinguished Professor

Dr. Gloria (I-Ling) Chien

The Arnold Lecture Series is hosted by Arnold Professor, a seasoned teacher and scholar who is recognized for their contribution to liberal arts education. Lecture dates are chosen each year by the new Arnold Professor.

Dr. Gloria (I-Ling) Chien is an Associate Professor of Religious Studies and the Arnold Distinguished Professor (2025–2028) at Gonzaga University. She teaches courses related to Buddhist meditation, Asian religions in film, and mindfulness. Dr. Chien received her Ph.D. from the University of Virginia and her M.A. from Chung-Hwa Institute of Buddhist Studies at Dharma Drum Mountain in Taiwan.
Learn more about Dr. Chien.