insight forum : 107 days at sea: the journey that changed everything
Wednesday, October 7, 2026
12:00 – 1:00 p.m. | Virtual via Zoom
Join the Academy of Lifelong Learning for an inspiring virtual presentation as Jill Chalsty shares the extraordinary story of spending 107 days at sea, a journey that transformed her perspective on resilience, purpose, and embracing life's unexpected challenges. Through powerful personal experiences, Jill will explore themes of personal growth, caregiving, surviving breast cancer, and finding hope in the face of adversity. Her remarkable story demonstrates how life's greatest challenges can become opportunities for reinvention, meaningful impact, and renewed purpose.
Whether you are navigating your own life transitions or simply seeking inspiration, this Insight Forum offers an uplifting opportunity to learn from a remarkable individual whose journey continues to inspire audiences around the world.
Eastern Illinois University is committed to providing accessible experience for all guests. If you require an accommodation to fully participate in this event, please contact Alumni Relations at alumeiu@eiu.edu.
Instructor Bio
Jill Siegal Chalsty
Author | Ambassador for Overcoming Obstacles
Jill Siegal Chalsty has devoted her life to the transformative power of education. As founder of Overcoming Obstacles, the nonprofit she launched in 1992, Jill pioneered life skills instruction that has now reached more than 180 million students worldwide. What began as a mission to help young people navigate life’s challenges has evolved into a global movement for youth empowerment. Following the profound loss of her husband and her own battles with cancer, Jill embarked on a voyage of healing and reflection. That journey inspired her memoir, Packets of Hope, an exploration of resilience, love, and finding meaning through service. She's made her book available for free at