TEDx are independently held TED events, or “ideas worth spreading” events. On March 9th, 2013, Louisiana State University is hosting their own TEDx event, TEDxLSU, with the theme of Evolve. The event is designed to generate new thought by connecting existing resources, people, and ideas at the local level, with the same impact as regular TED talks.
Event curator Joey Watson said TEDxLSU is about the sharing of ideas and by doing so, “positive things can happen in your community.”
Nearly two dozen lecturers, both from the university and the larger Baton Rouge community, will present speeches no more than 18 minutes long. Additionally, two LSU students won a chance to present their idea at the event as well. Each submitted a 500-word description of their idea or story and a five minute YouTube video telling why they should present it.
Speakers will explore and discuss their approaches to many of humanity’s fundamental concerns. Current scheduled speakers include: Casey Phillips, Entrepreneur and Community Activist; Jacques Rodrigue, Arts advocate and Attorney; Camille Broome, Entrepreneur, Urban Planner and Environmentalist; Michael Desmond, PhD, Architecture professor; Jensen Moore, Professor of Digital Media and Health Communications; Jose Bowen, PhD, Educational Curriculum Design, musician and author; Kenny Nguyen, entrepreneur, CEO and Founder of Big Fish Presentations; Tucker Barry, community activist; Brian Dixon, PhD, entrepreneur, author, and radio host; Pat Fellows, entrepreneur; Zack Godshall, filmmaker; Jesse Allison, Professor of experimental music and digital media; Keith Comeaux, NASA Jet Propulsion Labratory; Mary Stein, innovator and library sciences; Anita Kruse, entrepreneur, musician, Purple Songs Can Fly; Craig Freeman, Attorney and professor of public affairs; Zach Kopplin, science activist; Raymond Jetson, Pastor, community empowerment; Gary Shaffer, PhD, professor; Demetrea Kandalepas, Senior Scientist, Wetland Resources; Mark Martin, cycling enthusiast; and Tracy Shaffer, PhD, Professor of Performance Studies.
“To us, action includes the promotion and creation of ventures that will help shape the future of our region and state in a positive manner,” said Watson.
“This is the first TEDx event at LSU, and we expect it to be even bigger next year,” said Watson, who has already confirmed a 2014 event.
Visit tedxlsu.com for more information and to register.