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).

Alumni Auditorium at Widener University
1 University Place
Chester, Pennsylvania, 19013
United States

Carla Barqueiro

Assistant Professor of Political Science and International Relations

Carla Barqueiro is an assistant professor of political science and international relations at Widener University, a first-generation college graduate, and a proud immigrant to the United States. While growing up in the multicultural city of Montreal, her diverse family and community inspired a passion and interest in global politics. She became increasingly interested throughout her undergraduate degree in understanding under what conditions states use violence against their own citizens, and how the international community can play a key role in curtailing state repression. Barqueiro developed a burgeoning interest throughout her graduate studies in understanding human insecurity, and the means through which diverse voices, those that are often marginalized in political discourse, can contribute to a deeper understanding of the politics of harm.

Dante DiBattista

Community Servant, Leadership Coach, and Inspirational Speaker

Dante DiBattista is an award-winning community servant, leadership coach, and inspirational speaker who has worked with clients ranging from schools to nonprofits to global Fortune 500 companies. An emerging pioneer in the art and science of leadership development, Dante challenges the prevailing ideas of authority and how they are applied in the workforce today. A leading voice on the future of work and the emerging challenges that come with it, Dante is uniquely positioned to coach leaders on how to leverage emotional intelligence and psychology research to drive company performance without sacrificing the well-being of team members. Dante leverages his graduate-school education in Organizational Leadership, the findings from his own research, and over seven years’ experience to help solve complex business challenges.

Kendall Gordon

Producer, Editor, and Videographer

Kendall Gordon is a producer, editor, and videographer for CoastLife TV in Milton, Delaware. An accomplished communication studies graduate from Widener University, she completed her degree magna cum laude in May 2024. With a strong academic background, Kendall earned multiple honors, including the Dean’s List and membership in the National Society of Leadership and Success, Lambda Pi Eta, and Phi Eta Sigma honor societies. Drawing from a transformative four-month study experience in Hawaii, Kendall’s TED Talk explores strategies for staying present and mindful in a fast-paced world. The serene and immersive environment of Hawaii provided Kendall with profound insights into the importance of mindfulness, which she now shares to help others cultivate focus and presence in their daily lives.

Loyd Bastin

Associate Dean of Science, Professor of Chemistry and Biochemistry, and Coordinator of Undergraduate Research

Dr. Loyd Bastin holds a B.A. in Chemistry and a Ph.D. in Organic Chemistry. He is currently the Associate Dean of Science, a Professor of Chemistry and Biochemistry, and Coordinator of Undergraduate Research at Widener University where he has taught Organic Chemistry, Biochemistry, and Sustainability since 2004. Dr. Bastin has dedicated his academic career to the incorporation of sustainability and research into the undergraduate curriculum. He has several peer-reviewed articles and book chapters discussing the incorporation of sustainability, environmental justice, political advocacy, and green chemistry into the curriculum. He has co-edited the book Integration of Green and Sustainability Chemistry Principles into Education and two special issues on Advances in Green Chemistry Education in Green Chemistry Letters and Reviews.

Michelle Lyttle Storrod

Assistant Professor of Criminal Justice

Michelle Lyttle Storrod is an assistant professor of criminal justice at Widener University, where her scholarly pursuits center on the intricate intersection of youth, social media, and crime. Specifically, her research delves into how young individuals utilize social media platforms and mobile devices within the context of victimization and criminal activities. Her focus extends to understanding the multifaceted ways in which gangs leverage social media, encompassing both expressive aspects of gang culture and the instrumental facets of gang operations such as drug trafficking, sex trafficking, and the orchestration of violence. Drawing from over a decade of practical experience working with gangs in London, Storrod’s research direction is deeply rooted in a commitment to supporting young people. Her aim is to meticulously identify the harms they face and to develop evidence-based interventions aimed at disrupting cycles of violence.

Shaakira Abdullah

Sexologist and Family Nurse Practitioner

Dr. Shaakira Abdullah, also known as The Halal Sexpert, is a Sexologist with a Ph.D. in Human Sexuality and a Family Nurse Practitioner with a Doctor of Nursing Practice degree. She is passionate about providing sexuality education to the Muslim community from an Islamic Perspective based on their religious beliefs and values. Dr. Abdullah teaches courses for couples, singles, and parents and facilitates life-changing international retreats. Her goal is to help Muslims and people of faith learn how to maintain a comfortable balance between their spirituality and sexuality.