TEDx on its way to the University

Miriam Arias/ Staff Writer

Innovative ideas, challenging questions and though-provoking discussions accompany the University as it dives into the future.

TEDx is coming to the University and with it, bringing ideas and discussions on prominent issues concerning medical care, the use of green energy in India, and the future of humanity in space.TED stands for Technology, Entertainment and Design. According to Deborah O’Neil, TEDxFIU co-organizer from External Relations, TED Talks are a way in which people can share thoughts and ideas. “We want to share ideas that offer new ways of thinking about a variety of topics, from medicine to music,” O’Neil saidEight speakers have been chosen to participate in the event, whose theme is “Beyond the World You Know.” Following the theme, new world altering ideas will be discussed.

According to O’Neil, there were originally 65 applicants. An advisory board made up of representatives from the University reviewed the applications. After review from the representatives, applicants were recommended to the event curators. The latter made the final assessment and decided on the eight speakers that will be participating in the event.

“We feel we have a strong pool of outstanding students, alumni and faculty who will inspire and challenge the audience,” O’Neil said. Among the eight speakers is Ileana Rodriguez. Rodriguez, recognized as a top athlete in the London Paralympic Games in 2012, currently works as an architect with the United States Olympic committee.

Another speaker will be Pedro J. Greer, who has employed much of his life to providing accessible health care to those who lack it. Greer is also the recipient of the Presidential Medal of Freedom. The other speakers include: Elizabeth Price Foley, Ximena Prugue, Tony Succar, James Webb, Richard Olsen and Philip Koenig. TEDxFIU will be begin at 5:30 p.m. on Thursday, Nov. 15 at the Herbert and Nicole Wertheim Performing Arts Center.

Tickets for the event were sold out within minutes leaving many on a standby list. In response, O’Neil stated that a bigger venue is currently being sought out to provide space for more people.