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).

French Auditorium
French Auditorium, Mt Pleasant, MI 48858
Mt. Pleasant, Michigan, 48858
United States

Angle Bush

Angle Bush, CEO - Black Women In Artificial Intelligence Visionary. Innovator. Advocate. Angle Bush embodies the transformative power of leadership in technology. In 2020, Angle founded Black Women In Artificial Intelligence, driven by a singular mission: to Educate, Engage, Embrace, and Empower Black Women in AI. Under her leadership, the organization has become a global force, uniting members across five continents and forging partnerships with industry leaders such as Amazon, Microsoft, Capital One, and NVIDIA. These alliances reflect her unwavering commitment to opening doors, creating opportunities, and shaping the future of AI through inclusivity. Angle’s influence extends beyond her organization. As a sought-after speaker and thought leader, she challenges the tech world to think bigger, innovate smarter, and build with purpose. Her dedication to creating spaces where Black Women thrive is not just a mission, it’s a movement. An alumna of Central Michigan University with studies at Harvard, Angle brings both academic rigor and a relentless drive to her work. Currently, she serves as a Visiting Fellow at the University of Miami and sits on the Central Michigan University College of Science and Engineering Advisory Board, championing the next generation of innovators. Notable Highlights- New York Stock Exchange Closing Bell, NPR, Bloomberg, M.Live, Inc.Magazine, PBS-North Carolina, Forbes, National Urban League Conference, National Black Women In Artificial Intelligence Day

Annie Peters

Annie Peters is an award-winning Graphic Designer and educator. She worked in the Memphis community and advertising agencies for several years until moving on to teaching. She most recently spent four years as Adjunct Professor at Bowling Green State University in Bowling Green, OH. She is currently happy to be a Lecturer of Graphic Design at Central Michigan University and be part of the Mt. Pleasant community. She is a well-rounded designer, having worked in apparel, promotional products, corporate branding, web design, illustration, consultation, marketing, and more. She is a jack of all trades and a master of branding. She is a seven-time recipient of gold American Advertising Federation (ADDY) awards for her branding, social media, and community work. Annie's research focuses on graphic design as an intervention for suicidal ideation, neurodivergence as an act of joy and resistance, and feminism in graphic design as it relates to motherhood and the aftermath of childbearing. All of this equates to the impact art and graphic design can have on mental health and the human experience. She has a wonderful family, an incredible husband, and a son she loves more than life itself.

DILLON BARR

While attending Central Michigan University, Dillon ran a door-to-door educational business, where he sold, recruited, trained, and managed a team of 35 college students—producing over $1M in sales across five summers. He then spent three years as a transformational sales consultant for socially minded businesses in developing countries, partnering with 15 clients across 12 nations, in industries ranging from microfinance to solar energy to sanitation. Drawing from his global experience and love of frameworks to break down complex ideas, Dillon now focuses his efforts on empowering the next generation. He and his team have created a comic universe where kids craft characters that embody their gifts, their journeys, and their imaginations. He believes imagination isn't child's play—it's the gateway to unlocking our inner brilliance.

HOLLY CALDWELL

Holly Caldwell is a student at Central Michigan University pursuing a degree in Environmental studies with a minor in German. She hails from Milford Connecticut and has a passion for Track and Field, Rugby, all things Star Wars, and protecting the wildlife of the Great Lakes. Holly is an active member of the executive board for the CMU women's rugby team and works seasonally as a park ranger for the department of natural resources. After graduating, she plans to pursue a career in environmental law or conservation and dedicate her life to promoting sustainability in the state of Michigan.

JACOB BROWN

Jacob Brown is a former NFL athlete turned entrepreneur, transformational speaker, best-selling author, and business coach. Known for his #FailForward philosophy, Jacob helps individuals and organizations overcome challenges and embrace growth. As a three-time TEDx speaker, Jacob was named one of the '40 Under 40' in 2015. He's been featured in Forbes, the Wall Street Journal, and Good Morning America, among others. Jacob has also had the privilege of speaking for major brands and institutions such as Intel, Meta, LinkedIn, Dallas Cowboys, UPS, Carhartt, General Motors, the University of Notre Dame, and the University of Michigan. Jacob's mission goes beyond motivation. He promotes a transformative approach to life, advocating for a mental reset and a shift in perspective to discover one’s true calling.

MADISON MILLER

2nd-Year Medical Student | Health Advocate | Hereditary Cancer Gene Mutation Carrier Madison Miller is a second-year medical student at Central Michigan University College of Medicine with a personal connection to her work — she carries an ATM gene mutation and is a passionate member of the hereditary cancer community. Her experiences give her a unique perspective on cancer, blending clinical work, research, academics, and real life. When she’s not studying or in the hospital, Madison is an active health care advocate at the state and national level. An important focus of her advocacy is for better awareness, research, and access to care to make a difference for individuals and families affected by hereditary cancer. But life isn’t all oncology! Madison dances with Infusion Dance Team at CMU, loves camping trips with friends, soaking up time in nature with her husband, and making new memories with her family — moments that remind her what she's fighting for.

MICHAEL McCREERY

Michael McCreery Naakwa Nini (Noonday Man) draws upon the wisdom teachings of his Odawa and Ojibwe ancestors to guide others through challenge and change. As a Prevention Specialist with Saginaw Chippewa Tribe he supports Native youth with programs rooted in cultural identity, resilience, and community wellbeing. Previously, McCreery served as a Conservation Officer for the Little Traverse Bay Bands of Odawa Indians, protecting treaty rights and teaching sustainable practices grounded in the sacred cycle of the four seasons of life. His decade in tribal Law Enforcement with Grand Traverse Band centered on community policing and protecting traditional hunting, fishing and gathering ways based on the treaty of rights of 1836. McCreery’s has been shaped by profound loss- a “perfect storm” that called him to draw deeply on ancestral wisdom for strength. Through these teachings, he learned to navigate the unknown, walking forward with humility, courage and hope. A passionate student of Anishnaabe language, history and culture, McCreery is committed to honoring the living spirit of his people and carrying their enduring guidance into future.

MICHAEL McCREERYMcCREERY

Michael McCreery Naakwa Nini (Noonday Man) draws upon the wisdom teachings of his Odawa and Ojibwe ancestors to guide others through challenge and change. As a Prevention Specialist with Saginaw Chippewa Tribe he supports Native youth with programs rooted in cultural identity, resilience, and community wellbeing. Previously, McCreery served as a Conservation Officer for the Little Traverse Bay Bands of Odawa Indians, protecting treaty rights and teaching sustainable practices grounded in the sacred cycle of the four seasons of life. His decade in tribal Law Enforcement with Grand Traverse Band centered on community policing and protecting traditional hunting, fishing and gathering ways based on the treaty of rights of 1836. McCreery’s has been shaped by profound loss- a “perfect storm” that called him to draw deeply on ancestral wisdom for strength. Through these teachings, he learned to navigate the unknown, walking forward with humility, courage and hope. A passionate student of Anishnaabe language, history and culture, McCreery is committed to honoring the living spirit of his people and carrying their enduring guidance into future.