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).

33800 Inwood Road
Solon, Ohio, 44139
United States

Emmitt Jolly

Case Western Reserve University Parasitologist

Dr. Emmitt Jolly graduated cum laude from Tuskegee University and received his Masters and Ph.D. in biochemistry and molecular biology from University of California, San Francisco. He went on to work as a Postdoctoral Fellow in molecular parasitology and is the Assistant Professor of Biology and the Adjunct Assistant Professor of Global Health and Disease at Case Western Reserve University with many publications. Moreover, Dr. Jolly is an active speaker and member of the community as he co-founded the Association of UNCF/Merck Fellows, a not-for-profit mentoring group and think-tank, and spoken about academic research and increasing diversity across STEM fields.

Liza Grossman

Contemporary Youth Orchestra Music Director

Founder, Music Director, and Executive Producer of the Contemporary Youth Orchestra, Liza Grossman is also the tour conductor for Styx, a popular rock group. She has worked with a number of artists, including Twenty One Pilots, Machine Gun Kelly, Fall Out Boy, Graham Nash, and many others. Grossman has also conducted famous pieces and world premieres with the Nashville Symphony, Jacksonville Symphony, and CYO on major venues such as Severance Hall, Blossom Music Center, and Interlochen. She currently resides in Cleveland, Ohio, and enjoys spending time with her friends, family, and dogs.

Nanci Bush

English Teacher at Solon High School

Nanci Bush is a beloved teacher and friend to many people both inside and outside of Solon High School. On top of her role as an English instructor for 11th grade Honors English and 11th grade Advanced Placement English courses, Mrs. Bush is an avid reader, a dog enthusiast, and a world explorer. She graduated from The Ohio State University with a B.A. in English, a B.S. in English Education, and a M. Ed. from Kent State University.