Theme: Renewal

Embark on an inspiring journey of ideas and innovation at TEDx Point Park University, happening on Fri., March 8, 2024. This year's theme, "RENEWAL," invites thought leaders, innovators and the curious-minded to explore the many facets of rebirth, rejuvenation and revival in various fields.

At the heart of Downtown Pittsburgh, Point Park becomes a hub for transformative ideas, where speakers from diverse backgrounds will share their unique perspectives on how renewal can manifest in technology, culture, environment and personal growth.

This TEDx event promises to be a day of enlightening talks, engaging discussions and networking opportunities with like-minded individuals passionate about shaping a better future. Whether you're looking to ignite your creativity, find new solutions to old problems or simply be inspired, this event is for you.

Don't miss the chance to be part of this intellectual and creative feast. Join us at TEDx Point Park University for a day that could redefine the way you see the world. Renew your mind, renew your perspectives, renew your life!

Highmark Theater, Pittsburgh Playhouse
350 Forbes Avenue
Highmark Theater
Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, 15222
United States

Donovan Daniel

Co-Founder and CEO of Grizzled Teddy Company

Donovan Daniel is the co-founder and CEO of Grizzled Teddy Company - a business committed to encouraging and equipping men to groom their hearts, minds, and beards. He has worked with teenagers and college-aged students for almost ten years. He enjoys helping them to find community and become better leaders. When he is not talking about the importance of emotional, mental, and physical wellness, he is spending time with his best friend and wife friend, Felicia.

DT Burns

Writer, educator, theater maker

D.T. Burns (they/he) is a writer, educator, and theatre-maker. They create performances that playfully explore complex subjects, colliding topics from science and civics with elements of puppetry, spectacle, and role-playing games. D.T.'s work has been featured at venues like the Children's Museum of Pittsburgh, the Pittsburgh Opera, the Prague Quadrennial, and the Boulder International Fringe Festival. D.T. works as an Adjunct Professor of Playwriting at Point Park University.

Eddie Guerra and Jesabel Rivera-Guerra

Civil Engineer and Public Health Professional

Eddie Guerra, a civil engineer, and Jesabel Rivera-Guerra, a public health professional, combine their expertise to strengthen communities. Their collaborative efforts shine in disaster recovery, notably leading initiatives in Puerto Rico amid an earthquake and the COVID-19 pandemic in 2020. Together, they exemplify the power of unity in building resilient communities.

Gina Morgano

Singer

Gina Morgano helps people to love their voice and sing with courage so that they can feel fully expressed. A professional singer and vocal confidence coach, she currently performs with the Mendelssohn Choir of Pittsburgh and has appeared at Carnegie Hall, Lincoln Center, 54 Below, and PNC Park. She believes that your voice matters - and that sometimes the best way to use your voice is to listen.

Marley Parker

Student

Behavioral sciences. Outside of her time as a Dean’s List student she has held positions in organizations such as Strong Women Strong Girls, The Office for Violence against Women and Pioneer Ambassador orientation. Currently, Marley works at Children, Youth and Family services and dedicates time to furthering her education, inclusive leadership, dance and her friends and family.

Tanika Harris and Maisha Howze

Community Leaders

Tanika S. Harris, a "servant leader" with 20+ years in the public and private sectors, emerged from Garfield Heights Housing Projects. Armed with degrees in Organizational Leadership and Business Management, she authentically impacts community and economic development. As a proud single mother and grandmother, she challenges systems with transparency and authentic candor, embodying her commitment to people and communities. Maisha Howze holds a Bachelor of Arts in History from the University of Pittsburgh and a Master of Science in Counseling Psychology from Carlow University. Ms. Howze has written and published two books; W.A.S.H: Time To Do YOUR Laundry and Hidden Gems: Black Women In The Workplace. Passionate about community, she combines her academic background with a commitment to empowering others through her written work and community-focused endeavors.