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).

Allendale Columbia School
519 Allens Creek Road
Rochester, New York, 14618
United States

Cocoa Rae David

Cocoa Rae is a New York-based visual artist, curator, photographer, and business owner of By Cocoa Rae LLC, who creates captivating portraits and art of unique and diverse people and captures their true essence. Her style consists of vivid colors, Afrocentric shapes, and vibes, as well as bold lighting techniques. Cocoa's goal is to create a new style of photography and art that promotes individuality, authenticity, body positivity, and self-love. Cocoa Rae's photographic portfolio ranges in fashion, editorials, portraiture, and fire arts. Currently, Cocoa shoots both film and digital photography. Through all her years of work, Cocoa Rae has collaborated with various people and institutions, such as The Slave Dwelling Project, The Cocktail Bandits, Charleston Magazine, TEDx Talks, Visual Studies Workshop, Rochester Artist Collaborative, Writers and Books, George Eastman House, and various others. In addition, she also curated two BLM exhibitions in honor of Daniel Prude.

Isobel Goldman

Isobel Goldman was born and raised in Rochester, NY., and is the proud mother of Jennie Schaff (David Clar), Talli Dolge (Steve), Jonah Goldman (Jackie Payne), and of her grandchildren, Nathan, Charlie, Eliana, Desmond, Fiona, Asher, and Zach. She received a BFA degree from Albright Knox Art School at the University of Buffalo. Since then she has worked as a Package Designer in New York City; Design Director at Aardvark Advertising; Sales promotion designer, Polo/Ralph Lauren; Corporate designer, Xerox Corporation; and Co-owner, Designer, Significs Design Studio, Rochester. Isobel then made a career change in the 1980s to a community activist. She now plays an active role in the fight for Soviet Jewry; Interfaith programs, education, and cooperation; Literacy programs for Rochester City Schools; and Israel awareness and advocacy.

Patrick Veroneau

Patrick Veroneau is the youngest of 10 kids and enjoys life in Maine with his wife, Cyndi, three kids, Noah, Grace, Josh, and their yellow lab, Charlie. He is the president of Emery Leadership Group, host of the podcast Learning from Leaders, and author of The Leadership Bridge.

Vance Osness

Vance Osness is a sophomore at Allendale Columbia School and has been playing the violin for eight years. He is currently part of the Hochstein Philharmonia Orchestra.