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).

Decatur Public Library
130 N. Franklin St.
Madden Auditorium
Decatur, Illinois, 62523
United States

Aimee Miller-Ott

Associate Professor

Aimee E. Miller-Ott, Ph.D., is an Associate Professor and Graduate Program Coordinator in the School of Communication at Illinois State University. Her research focuses on ways that people use communication to manage their personal and relational identities in various contexts. She has an extensive line of co-authored research focused on how people experience, make sense of, and respond to their friends', family members', and romantic partners' use of cell phones and cell phone distractions when spending time with them.

Bridgette Davey

NASA Lucy Mission Ambassador

Bridgette Cassidy Davey is a senior physics major currently attending Monmouth College in Monmouth, Illinois. She primarily does research in astrophysics involving near earth asteroids. Her research and desire to share her love of astronomy are what motivated her to become a NASA Lucy Mission Ambassador. Throughout her academic life, Bridgette has had several mentors share their passion for science and encourage the same interest in her. She hopes to use this opportunity to share about the Lucy Mission and do the same for others. Some of the things Bridgette enjoys in her spare time are growing plants, fossil hunting, reading science fiction, painting pictures, and playing flute. One of her favorite astronomy quotes is by Miles Kington: "Astronomers, like burglars and jazz musicians, operate best at night."

Heather McConnell-Smith

Engineer

Experienced Engineering Supervisor with a demonstrated history of working in the utilities industry. Skilled in Petroleum, Refining, Root Cause Analysis, EPC, and Commissioning. Strong engineering professional with a B.S. E focused in Chemical Engineering from University of Iowa.

Kristi Palmer

Professor of Sociology and Psychology

Professor Kristi Palmer has been teaching Sociology and Psychology at Richland Community College for the last 23 years. She has her B.A. in Psychology from the University of IL, Springfield and an M.S. in Family Development and Education from Friends University, Wichita KS. She is a Certified Family Life Educator who has presented workshops statewide on topics including education, child development, divorce, and parenting. She resides in Decatur with her son and their 3 dogs.

Ngozi Onuora

Associate Professor

Dr. Ngozi Onuora is an Associate Professor in the College of Professional Studies at Millikin University. In this role, she teaches literacy courses for pre-service teachers in the School of Education. Dr. O is also Chair of the African American Studies committee, and she serves on a variety of committees and councils on campus and in the community.

Olivia Brewer

College Student

Olivia is a senior Entrepreneurship major at Millikin University. She loves helping people identify their life purpose and relentlessly pursue their dreams. Olivia is an aspiring speaker, author, and founder of a holistic wellness center.