North Central features 12 talks in TEDx public event March 31

North Central College will present its third annual TEDx event, featuring 12 presentations, live music and interactive exhibits focused on the theme “Come to Your Senses.” Open to the public, the event takes place Friday, March 31.

TEDx events are about spreading ideas that foster learning, innovation and wonder. Compelling ideas, said event organizer Whitney Roberts, can awaken our senses—those senses beyond our physical ones like sight, hearing and touch to the deeper senses of responsibility, of purpose, of shared humanity.

“We’re thrilled to provide a platform for ideas that can really make a difference in the world,” said Roberts, assistant director for civic engagement. “This is the perfect showcase of our students and alumni because it demonstrates the true outcome of a North Central College education: well-rounded leaders who can think critically, act responsibly and communicate effectively.”

This year’s alumni presenters include entrepreneurs, doctors, a writer, economist and businessperson, who will explore diverse topics such as trauma, the soul, sound and food. Current students will share talks about the media, prisons, perception, fear and more. To view the lineup of speakers and topics visit tedxnorthcentralcollege.com/speakers.    

In addition to the speakers, live music by Ryan O’Neal of the acclaimed musical group Sleeping at Last will be featured throughout the event to thematically support the talks. Recently, Sleeping at Last crafted a series of five songs—one for each of the physical senses.

The TEDxNorthCentralCollege talks will take place from 4:30 to 8:30 p.m. in the College’s theatre at Meiley-Swallow Hall, 31 S. Ellsworth St. Limited in number, tickets are $20/public and $10/North Central College community; call 630-637-SHOW (7469) or visit northcentralcollege.edu/showtix.

This event is organized by North Central’s Leadership, Ethics and Values program and Student Affairs. Other event partners will provide food, products, services and interactive experiences, including Blooming Color, Blackberry Market, Eikon Creative, Sound Summit, Wonderkind Studio and The Union.