Theme: Creating Opportunity

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.
Join us for a powerful and engaging evening at Towson University, as we proudly host our very own TEDx event. This year's theme: Creating Opportunity.
To apply to attend TEDxTowsonU, visit http://www.tedxtowsonu.com. This event is free to attend, and open to TU students, faculty and staff, as well as community members. Due to TEDx specifications, we can only allocate 100 seats for this event.

TU: West Village Commons
8000 York Road
Towson, Maryland, 21252
United States

Jaellin King

Student Leader, Towson University

Jaellin Megan King is a student at Towson University, majoring in English with a concentration in Writing and a minor in Communication Studies. Her love for spoken word poetry and the English language has carried itself throughout much of her adolescence and intensified within her collegiate experience. Jaellin was born and raised in Brooklyn, New York by her parents who were born in the West Indies. Much of her identity is rooted within these diverse cultures and throughout her life she has had to learn how to navigate the world while trying to remain true to herself. These different cultures are composed of unique perspectives and customs, but most noticeably, different dialects. Growing up, she was aware of how instinctual it was to adjust her language in accordance to the occasion, friend group, and/or setting, but not educated on why this happens and how it impacts her life.

Jordan DeVeaux

Student Leader, Towson University

Jordan DeVeaux is 19 years old and graduated from Stone Ridge School of the Sacred Heart in Bethesda, MD in 2018. She is now a second-year student at Towson University majoring in psychology with a minor in family studies. She aspires to ultimately pursue a career in geriatric psychology with a specialty in hospice care. Jordan serves as the President Pro-Tempore of the Student Senate of Towson University, working tirelessly to foster an environment where all voices and perspectives are valued. In addition to her role at Towson University, she cares deeply about the intersections of intellectual inquiry and spiritual practice. She preached her first sermon in 2014 and intends to continue ministerial studies after completing her undergraduate studies. In knowing Jordan, the one common factor, transcending discipline or creed, is truly evident — the devotion to upholding the dignity of every human person.

Lauren Schifter

Student Leader, Towson University

Lauren is a full-time graduate student and assistant at Towson University, majoring in Autism Studies and Clinician-Administrator Transitioning, where she is set to graduate in May of 2020. Lauren also became an alumna of Towson University in May of 2018, majoring in Special Education and Disability Studies. She currently works in Post-Secondary Services at Kennedy Krieger Institute as an Employment Training Specialist, working with adults with disabilities and is also involved at the Hussman Center for Adults with Autism. Lauren’s personal experience with her adult brother with Autism, has led to her commitment of serving individuals with disabilities. Her personal experience led to her role in advocacy and awareness in the community. She continues to spread the same message across all platforms that there is the vast ability to create endless opportunities for everyone and with a step in the right direction towards acceptance of a more neurodiverse community, anything is possible!

Modelz Of Distinction

Student Organization, Towson University

M.O.D is a modeling team interested in maintaining our brand of excellence through professionally executed fashion shows, involvement on campus, and community service. We seek out those interested in fashion design, makeup, print work, photography, and videography, specializing in runway and choreographed performances. Not only are the basics of modeling taught, but also long lasting relationships are made that encourage confidence building and help to inspire members to pursue new endeavors never thought of before.

Shavise Glascoe

Director, Towson University Wellness Center

Shavise Glascoe, M.S., is the director of the Towson University Wellness Center and a certified exercise physiologist. She has worked with individuals of all ages and fitness levels and specializes in program design for weight management, chronic disease prevention and treatment. Her mission is to empower others to improve their quality of life and incorporate healthy behaviors into their daily lives.

Tobin Porterfield

Chair, Towson University Department of Business Analytics & Technology Management

Tobin Porterfield is an Associate Professor and chairman of the Department of Business Analytics & Technology Management at Towson University. After a seventeen year industry career, he completed his Ph.D. in Logistics and Supply Chain Management at the University of Maryland and joined Towson University in 2007. His passion for teaching centers on helping his students understand how they will apply their knowledge and technical skills to their careers. This led him to research the additional “soft skills” that are also needed for career success. His 2017 book, The 55 Soft Skills That Guide Employee and Organizational Success, documents this wide array of skills and launched his current mission to help people develop soft skills that complement their technical skills.