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Students, faculty and staff at Gannon University reflected on the power of collective, positive change at the second annual Dr. David and MaryAnne Kozak Gannon READS program Thursday, Oct. 16, at the Warner Theatre. 

The lecture welcomed students, faculty, staff and members of the Erie community to hear from David LaMotte, singer, songwriter and author of “You Are Changing the World Whether You Like It or Not,” the featured book in Gannon’s 2025 Gannon READS (Reading to Enhance the Awareness of a Diverse Society) program. 

Gannon READS enhances the first-year student experience by providing a common book for discussion. Each member of this class received a copy of the book at the university’s convocation ceremony in August. During the first half of the fall semester, this book framed the coursework in their first-year seminar course, Gannon 101. All members of the local community are invited to join in on the reading, as well.  

During the lecture, LaMotte delivered a presentation followed by a question-and-answer session with Sarah Ewing, Ph.D., vice president for student experience. 

LaMotte has released 13 albums and performed more than 3,500 concerts, with hits reaching the top of the folk charts during a career spanning more than 30 years. As a speaker and author, he addresses peace and conflict resolution, delivering TEDx talks and keynoting events at the U.N., the Scottish Parliament and Rotary International. 

“It’s not naive to think you can change the world,” he told students and community members. He challenged students to recognize their callings and the power of collective action. “You can’t be in the world and not change it,” he said. 

Attendees left the event with an increased sense of community and a reminder that small actions can go a long way. 

For more information about the Gannon READS program, click here.