Most people have seen Ted Talks, whether it serves to benefit the academics of a class, or as a reminder of just how bad you are at public speaking. Here at SLU, we are fortunate enough to allow the chance for students to have their own Ted Talks. Tedx, a branch of the notable organization, is a group that helps spread ideas throughout communities. For students at SLU, it allows their research and rigorous work to be recognized, and is just another opportunity for them to showcase the things they are passionate about.

This year’s Tedx theme is “Time to Change?” in which they hope to “open discussion about the different sections of society that are changing… [and] to examine how change can be both beneficial and/or detrimental.” A variety of current students and St. Lawrence alumni will be speaking from topics ranging from biodiversity to cultural and language depletion.With the hard work everyone has put in, a light will be shed on new problems risen from change we see in society and in other cultures.

Maddie Lares ’19, a member of the Class of 2019, will be speaking about her research in Alaska about climate change’s effect on the culture and language of those who live there. She appreciates that Tedx has extended to our community because it “allows [her] to spread more information about the Siberian Yupik people, and that it’s important to share what’s happening so that others can gain an understanding of the impact climate change is already having.”

Through having these open discussions, TedxStLawrenceU hopes that this exposure could lead to outcomes and actions that will benefit people not only on a small scale like the Yupik people, but the globe as a whole. She’s excited to share not only because her parents are coming up from North Dakota to see her presentation, but because “these talks allow for audiences to learn about such unique things they might have not otherwise heard about.” For us, it is important that we listen.

If you’re interested in learning about change and its effect on our world, TedxStLawrenceU will be held on Saturday, March 9 in PK Hall from 12 p.m. to 4 p.m. Tickets can be found and reserved through SLU Wire or on Eventbrite.com, found on their Facebook page (TedxStLawrenceU).