Theme: Are We There Yet?

TEDx has always made it a goal of bringing forth ideas around technology, entertainment, and design, and this year, we're exploring 'what might be to come' with our new title theme, "Are We There Yet?"

Brookdale Community College Performing Arts Center
765 Newman Springs Road, Parking Lot #1 & #2
Lincroft, New Jersey, 07738
United States

Ali Taylor

Business Owner

Ali J. Taylor is a dynamic force in entrepreneurship, leadership, and personal development, dedicated to unleashing the full potential of individuals and organizations. As the Founder of Wisdom & Wayfinder and CEO/Creative Director of BelMarketing Design Studio, he empowers solopreneurs and micro businesses to thrive through strategic guidance and transformative insights. With a keen understanding of human behavior, Ali helps clients navigate challenges, unlock their inner wisdom, and succeed. Committed to philanthropy, he actively supports blood cancer research. He participates in fundraising efforts such as the Leukemia & Lymphoma Society's Man of the Year competition 2018 and serves on various leadership committees.

Christian Rutty

Student

Christian Rutty, a young auto racing enthusiast captivated by speed since childhood. At 3, he identified car brands by logos, igniting his passion. By 5, witnessing The Grand Prix of Baltimore sparked his love for racing. By 7, deeply immersed in go-kart racing, he competed nationally with success. His interests expanded to various racing disciplines, including driving on the Palisadoes track in Jamaica. Transitioning to larger karts, he excelled regionally and nationally, showcasing talent in STEM with an IQ of 147. Now, an Early Entrance College freshman majoring in Mechanical Engineering, he combines his passions. He founded KidzSpeed.com, a platform fostering a worldwide community for young motorsport enthusiasts.

David Bassano

History Professor

David Bassano, PhD, specializes in the Central American Human Rights Movement during the 1980s. As an Associate Professor at Brookdale Community College, he teaches US History, Human Rights, and Latin American History courses. Beyond academia, he delivers public talks on indigenous rights and ethical consumerism and runs the "Human Rights Education" YouTube channel. Bassano's research appears in esteemed journals and his book, "Fight and Flight: The Central America Human Rights Movement in the United States in the 1980s." Actively engaged in college service, he advocates for social justice through various roles, including as a faculty liaison and member of the New Jersey Social Justice Remembrance Coalition.

Oscar Diaz

Curriculum & Instruction Administrative Supervisor

Oscar R. Diaz is an accomplished educational leader with a Doctorate in Educational Leadership. Currently serving as the Administrative Supervisor for Curriculum and Instruction at the Freehold Regional High School District in Monmouth County, New Jersey, Oscar Diaz is dedicated to transforming lives through accessible education. His career spans diverse leadership roles, focusing on access and opportunity for all students. With expertise in teacher evaluations, professional development, curriculum design, and strategic planning, Oscar Diaz is committed to fostering excellence and inclusivity in education. Inspired by his grandfather's legacy, he champions inclusive practices and empowers learners to create brighter futures.

Philip Musey

Writer, Director, Producer

Philip Musey, a versatile professional, excels as a writer, director, editor, and creative producer, drawing from a background in strategy consulting and digital marketing. He's dedicated to storytelling, focusing on politics, identity, technology, and modern-day coming-of-age experiences. Passionate about narratives challenging norms, he aims to provoke laughter, introspection, and societal examination while fostering human unity. With a Bachelor's from Harvard in Economics and Government, Philip admits to weaknesses for "Parks and Rec" and Levain cookies and enjoys conversations with strangers for their diverse perspectives.

Sarbmeet Singh Kanwal

Physics Professor

Sarbmeet S. Kanwal has a PhD from Caltech in Theoretical Particle Physics. After an extensive career at Bell Labs in research and engineering, he now teaches physics & astronomy at Brookdale Community College. Sarbmeet was recognized as an outstanding instructor and is a sought-after speaker on topics that range from popular science to its intersection with spirituality. He is the recipient of the Earl Thomas Teasley Humanitarian Award from the Monmouth County Human Relations Commission for founding an interfaith youth leadership program called MOSAIC. He spoke at TEDx Asbury Park in 2019 on the topic, "Chaos to Cosmos".

Tracey Severns

Chief Academic Officer, New Jersey Department of Education

Tracey Severns, an education professional since 1992, has held various roles, from teacher to Chief Academic Officer. With a wealth of experience, she's recognized for her leadership, data analysis, and professional development expertise. She's received numerous awards and accolades, including being named a National Distinguished Principal. Severns is also a host, creating platforms like DisruptEd TV and Wins and Wonderings to address educational challenges. Recently, she's added comedy to her repertoire, bringing joy to schools through stand-up and presentations. As the founder of Teach4Results, she continues to offer consulting services in education. Her upcoming book, "Mistakes, Missteps, Missed Opportunities: Lived Lessons from the Real World of Educational Leaders," reflects her commitment to advancing education.

Yesenia Madas

Vice President, Student Affairs

Yesenia Madas is a dynamic leader in higher education, renowned for her extensive experience in counseling, academia, and student affairs. With a Doctorate in Educational Leadership from Rowan University, she currently serves as the Vice President of Student Affairs at Brookdale Community College. Beyond academia, She currently serves on various boards, including Monmouth Medical Center, NJ ACE Women's Network, and the Higher Education Resource Development Institute (HERDI), and was actively involved in initiatives such as Habitat for Humanity and the American Cancer Society. Madas is a sought-after speaker, delivering keynote addresses at events such as the Educational Opportunity Fund (EOF) Graduation Dinner and a chapter of the American Association of Women in Community Colleges. Her passion for empowering students and fostering inclusive learning environments is evident in her impactful presentations, making her a catalyst for positive change in higher education.