In the spirit of ideas worth spreading, TEDx is a program of local, self-organized events that bring people together to share a TED-like experience. At a TEDx event, TEDTalks video and live speakers combine to spark deep discussion and connection in a small group. These local, self-organized events are branded TEDx, where x = independently organized TED event. The TED Conference provides general guidance for the TEDx program, but individual TEDx events are self-organized (subject to certain rules and regulations).

Heartland Community College Astroth Community Education Center
1530 Millenium Drive
Normal, Illinois, 61761
United States

Edcel Javier Cintron-Gonzalez

Edcel is a proud Puerto Rican, poet, and graduate worker pursuing a Ph.D. in English Studies with a focus in Children's and YA Literature. You can follow Edcel on IG: @problematicshopaholic and X (twitter): @Edcel_Pretzel

Erica Orrison

From Fortune 500 organizations to early stage startup software commercialization in AI and XR technology, including a startup of her own, Erica has been at the forefront of business development and the intellectual property revolution.

Isha Gollapudi

Isha Gollapudi, a senior at Normal Community High School, is an enterprise technology intern at State Farm and an active participant in her school's ADP program. Follow her @isha.gollapudi

Jenette Jurczyk

Jenette Jurczyk is the National Director of the She Said Project, producing and directing love shows called "That's What She Said." Follow them @shesaidproject

Julia Jordan-Lake

Julia Jordan-Lake, MA, LCPC, is a mental health therapist in Forest Park, IL.

Karen V. Jenkins

Karen is a innovator, philanthropist, Ph.D in Information Science candidate, and Founder & CEO of @KIdAlytics, a platform that teaches emerging data skills. Follow her on IG: @kvjenkins or X: @dr_mickeymouse

Meghan Reha

Meghan is a global renewable energy expert who loves old houses, books, cats, and thriving under Collapse.

Rebekah Mangels

Rebekah is a graduate worker, activist, and musician. You can follow her at @manglesmusic on Facebook, YouTube, and Instagram.

Shanta Kanukollu, PhD

Shanta is a Licensed Clinical Psychologist who has her own private practice focusing on immigrant communities. She is also co-founder of Connect2Therapists, a service which helps people find the right therapist. You can follow her on IG: @snk_therapy and @connect2therapists.