San Diego State is hosting TedxSDSU: A World Unraveled, an event featuring several keynote speakers from various areas of research and business.
Only 100 tickets were available, and they sold out within minutes of going on sale at noon on Feb. 26. Tickets to a live stream of the talk were available to the first 100 people on Feb. 29, and also sold out the same afternoon.
According to the TEDx website, these events are designed to create discussion and connection in a small group. Per TEDx rules, only 100 tickets were available for the event.
The event, which will be held from noon to 4 p.m. on Sunday March 6 in Montezuma Hall, features six keynote speakers.
“I would emphasize that this year we chose the theme A World Unraveled to bring about a very diverse range of topics and speakers,” Denise Padilla, one of the TEDxSDSU team members said. “We want students to develop a deeper understanding and attitude for the world and people around them.”
“TED emphasizes ideas worth spreading, but it goes deeper than that,” said Travis Thom, website developer for TEDxSDSU. “In addition to the idea itself, you learn about a new culture, a new community, a new perspective, and ultimately a new person … I believe it’s important for all people to look outside their own bubble and unravel the world around them.”
One of the speakers is psychology researcher Alan J. Fridlund. He is a faculty member at UC Santa Barbara who specializes in developmental and evolutionary psychology.
Another speaker is Phillip Bretz, a breast cancer surgeon and researcher who focuses on “preserving the mind, body and spirit of his patients.”
One of the speakers is a well-traveled nonprofit executive. Christopher B. Keller is COO of Falling Whistles, a company that works to end violence in the Democratic Republic of Congo.
Another speaker is a local San Diego businessman. Isidore Niyongabo is the founder and executive director of International Deaf Education, Advocacy and Leadership (IDEAL).
Lea Freeman, an associate with Qualcomm Ventures is also a speaker for the event. She tracks analysis for investments and assists with financial modeling.
The final speaker for the event is Jason Bischoff, a writer, creator and toy industry veteran who has contributed to shows like Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles and Blues Clues.
The TEDxSDSU team consists of eight San Diego State students.
Integrated marketing communications senior Marissa Walsh, finance junior Matthew Schott, business management senior Hailey Hicks, business administration senior Denise Padilla, kinesiology senior Cyrell Jumanan, psychology junior Alanna Arno, political science senior Nicole Davidov and accounting junior Travis Trom are the students who are coordinating the event.
“TED talks are meant not only to inspire, but they bring new and innovative ideas that spark an audience to think differently.” Padilla said.
Videos of the speakers will be posted on the TEDxSDSU website following the event.
