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).

Sun Prairie West High School
2850 Ironwood Drive
Sun Prairie, Wisconsin, 53590
United States

Eric Piotrowski

Teacher and Author

Eric S. Piotrowski is a writer and educator in Wisconsin. He grew up in Florida and attended New College when it was still cool. He began taking action on issues from human rights to international economics in his early 20s and began teaching in 2000. He moved to Wisconsin in 2001 and began creating classes focused on hip-hop, creative writing, and other important subjects. A writer from a young age, Piotrowski has published six books on topics ranging from mindfulness to teaching to science-fiction space adventure. His work has appeared in the English Journal and The 3288 Review among others. In 2008 he was awarded the Imperial Napoleonic Triple Crown “for exceptional contributions” to Wikipedia. A lifelong video game addict, he co-hosts the weekly VeteranGamers UK podcast. He lives with his wife and animal friends on a farm outside Madison.

Marcus Porter

Hip-Hop Artist

In the heartland of America, where the urban music scene is often overlooked, a rising star is breaking barriers and reshaping the industry. Meet Marcus Porter, a rapper hailing from the vibrant city of Madison, Wisconsin. Born with a passion for music and an unyielding desire to connect with others, Porter has emerged as an unstoppable force, ready to leave his mark on the world. Porter has already achieved notable milestones in his career. His magnetic stage presence has graced numerous iconic venues in his home state, including Lifest, Cap Times Live, Festival Foods Lights The Isthmus, and Hip-Hop Fest. In recognition of his exceptional talent, he received a nomination and became a finalist for the prestigious Hip Hop Performer of the Year award at the 2022 Madison Area Music Awards (MAMA).

Shreya Bhargava

Student

Shreya Bhargava is a 17-year-old student at Sun Prairie West High School. Being the first second-generation immigrant in her family, she is passionate about alleviating the fear of failure from society, especially for young adults. Involvement in extracurriculars such as DECA, National Honor Society, Forensics, and Student Council has given Shreya an intricate experience in high school. In her free time, Shreya enjoys cooking, traveling, being outdoors, and spending quality time with friends. Starting in the fall of 2024, she will attend the University of Wisconsin-Madison, pursuing degrees in Chemistry and Psychology!

Suhani Pandey

Student

Suhani Pandey was born in Kathmandu, Nepal, and moved to the United States when she was four. At an early age, she grew up in Wisconsin and had a bright interest in academics and getting involved in different activities. These traits followed her through high school, where she had immense success on the Forensics team and DECA, holding officer positions as President of SkillsUSA and Historian of the National Honor Society. Pandey’s triumphant involvement continues outside of school. She is the co-founder of the Jageshwar Dham of Nepal, has earned her 2nd-degree black belt, is a martial arts instructor, a student trustee on the Sun Prairie Public Library Board, and is a language teacher for the Nepali American Friendship Association in the Madison area. Her leadership, public speaking, and teaching efforts have tremendously impacted her peers and community. She continues this as she pursues her undergraduate studies in Mechanical Engineering at the University of Wisconsin-Madison.