Theme: The Essence of a Changing World

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).

French Auditorium
1200 S. Franklin St.
Mt Pleasant, Michigan, 48858
United States

Anyah Lewis

Student

Anyah Lewis is a graduating senior from Central Michigan University. Majoring in Sociology with a concentration in Youth Studies, and minor in Family Studies; Anyah’s involvements include, but are not limited to President of Zeta Phi Beta Sorority, Incorporated, Sigma Kappa Chapter; Ronald E. McNair Scholars Program with published research; and is a student mentor for the Mentor Collective program. Anyah has a passion for community enrichment and is always looking for opportunities to give back. With an affinity toward youth development, Anyah endeavors to live a life of advocacy specifically for minority students. Lewis seeks to find innovative ways to implement resources and tools for young adolescents who’ve experienced trauma to heal and progress through life.

Jada Thrash

Student

Jada Thrash is currently a junior at CMU as an Outdoor and Environmental Recreation and Education Major with Minors in Leadership and Communications. She is also a Leader Advancement Scholar passionate about using her voice for positive change in her community and inspiring others to do the same. Growing up in the suburbs of Washington, DC, Atlanta, and Philadelphia before moving to Kalamazoo a decade ago, she found her voice as part of over 40 plays, musicals, TV appearances, movies, speaking competitions, and public speeches. At CMU, she is a member of the Alpha Gamma Delta sorority, a social media coordinator for the Leadership Institute, a campus ambassador, a Collegiate Panhellenic Council Greek Week Representative, and a facilitator for various Leadership conferences and events around campus.

Jessica Hetzel

Student

Jessica Hetzel is a student at Central Michigan University, currently pursuing a degree in disability studies and public relations. She has demonstrated her leadership skills by serving as the Director of Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion for the Collegiate Panhellenic Council. Her dedication and passion for disability rights and community inclusion have been evident throughout her academic career. Jessica is committed to making a positive impact in these areas, and she plans to continue her work in creating more inclusive and welcoming communities.

Jonathan Glenn

Director of Diversity & Inclusion

Jonathan Glenn is the Director of Diversity & Inclusion/ Deputy Title IX Coordinator at Alma College. Glenn is also a doctoral candidate at Central Michigan University (CMU). Prior to joining Alma College, Glenn worked as the Associate Athletic Director with CMU Athletics. In this position he worked with leadership development, student conduct, Title IX, care team reporting, DEI director, and sports administrator for Women's Basketball, Women's Lacrosse, and Wrestling. Over the last seven years at Central Michigan University, Glenn has provided trainings on leadership, mentorship, multiculturalism, diversity, equity, and inclusion for several on and off campus organizations. Jonathan has presented for: St. Louis Public Schools, Gratiot County Public Schools, Omega Psi Phi, Florida Gulf Coast University, University of Nevada (Reno), Mid- American Conference, Center of Attraction Outreach, Resurrection Life Church, CMU Athletics, Aludyne Manufacturer, and more.

Joseph Marah

Student

Joseph Marah is the President and found of the Joseph Marah Arnold Foundation, a nonprofit in Sierra Leone, West Africa. He is currently a student at Central Michigan University pursuing degrees in Economics and Political Science with minors in Entrepreneurship and Public Administration. Joseph is actively involved in student leadership on campus, serving as the Student Government representative for the International Student Organization and Vice President of the Northwest Community Council. Mr. Marah enjoys cultural exchange and was previously a Kennedy-Lugar Youth Exchange Student. During his exchange year, Mr. Marah was involved in leadership and interfaith conferences in Istanbul, Turkey and Baltimore, Maryland. These conferences greatly widened his passions for cultural exchange and leadership.

Nikita Murray

Director of Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion

Dr. Nikita Murry provides oversight for institution-wide diversity education initiatives at CMU, serving in the position since 2020. Through her role, Dr. Murry engages with faculty, staff, students, and alumni using scholarship and best practices for DEI to help ensure all individuals who engage with CMU experience authentic belonging and inclusion. Work in the equity and inclusion space has been a core function of every position she has held, especially her work that connects wellness and social justice. Her previous work as a college educator, licensed professional counselor, and journalist gives her unique perspectives on tuning in to and elevating marginalized voices. Dr. Murry is a CMU alumna who is passionate about working with disenfranchised people to help them develop the tools and skills to achieve their highest potential.

Shawna Patterson-Stephens

Vice President and Chief Diversity Officer

Dr. Shawna Patterson-Stephens serves as Vice President and Chief Diversity Officer at Central Michigan University where she offers leadership within the Office for Institutional Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion. Dr. Patterson-Stephens dedicated her career to studying and creating more equitable systems for people from all avenues of life. She works toward creating an environment, both on campus and in the surrounding community, with the aim of ensuring everyone achieves their true potential. Shawna is an active member of Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Incorporated, the Links, Incorporated, the NAACP, and the National Council for Negro Women, & Jack & Jill of America.

Tiffany Jurge

Student

Tiffany Jurge is a sophomore in CMU’s Honors Program. She is currently pursuing a double major in Political Science and Environmental Studies with a minor in Spanish. She would like to pursue a career in environmental law or international policy. Tiffany hopes to follow her life-long goal of being an active citizen by advocating for those in need and exploring the complex nature of systemic issues.