10/16/2026
When more than 75 people gather before 8:00 a.m. to discuss compassion, ethics, and artificial intelligence in healthcare, you know you've touched on a topic that matters.
What an incredible morning at Compassionate Care in the Age of AI!
More than 75 healthcare professionals, community leaders, educators, advocates, and students gathered at Fairfield University for a thought-provoking conversation about the opportunities and responsibilities that come with the growing use of artificial intelligence in healthcare.
Our distinguished panel represented a wide range of perspectives:
🔹 Dr. Rohit Bhalla shared how AI is transforming healthcare delivery and supporting better patient outcomes.
🔹 Dean Patricia Boyce offered insight into preparing the next generation of healthcare professionals for a rapidly evolving healthcare landscape.
🔹 Jennifer Cox, Esq. explored the legal and ethical issues that accompany AI adoption in healthcare.
🔹 Brian Lacey discussed the practical application of AI technologies to support clinicians and improve efficiency.
🔹 Sumit Sajnani provided a public policy perspective on the opportunities and challenges facing healthcare and government.
While the panelists approached AI from different vantage points, one message rang loud and clear:
AI can be a powerful tool, but compassionate care still requires a human in the loop.
We were also honored to hear closing reflections from Rev. Kevin O'Brien, S.J., whose thoughtful remarks challenged us to consider not only what AI can do, but how it should be used in service of human dignity, compassion, and the common good.
An especially meaningful part of the morning was recognizing two extraordinary individuals whose lives and work embody those very values:
🏆 Robin Kanarek, BSN, RN, Hon.D, recipient of the Pioneer of Compassionate Palliative Care Advocacy Award
🏆 Claudio Pannunzio, honored posthumously with induction into the Founders Hall of Fame for Visionary Leadership Advocating for Compassion in Healthcare
Their legacies served as a powerful reminder that while technology continues to evolve, the heart of healthcare remains rooted in human connection.
A heartfelt thank you to:
âś… Fairfield University for serving as a wonderful host and providing a delicious breakfast
âś… Our outstanding panelists and moderator, Joanne Palmer
âś… Rev. Kevin O'Brien, S.J., for his inspiring closing reflections
âś… The Patient Is U Board members who attended and supported this important event
âś… Everyone who joined us and contributed to such an engaging discussion
âś… Our generous sponsors, whose support helped make this important conversation possible:
• Connecticut Hospice
• Fairfield Egan School of Nursing & Health Studies
• Jewish Family Services of Greenwich
• The Leibell Family
• Kanarek Family Foundation
• Mercury Marketing Communications
• NewEdge Wealth
• Stamford Health
The future of healthcare will undoubtedly include AI. The challenge before us is ensuring that innovation strengthens, rather than diminishes, the compassion, dignity, and relationships at the heart of caring for others.
