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).

Oakland City University
138 N. Lucretia St
Oakland City, Indiana, 47660
United States

Anna Bartosh

Anna Bartosh is a junior at Oakland City University majoring in Business Administration with double concentrations in Management and Human Resources, double minors in Servant Leadership and Psychology, and certificates in Accounting and Marketing while working towards completing the SHRM-certified professional exam. After graduation in May of 2026, she plans to complete her Master's in Business Administration with a concentration in Nonprofit Management and Leadership at Liberty University to open her Christian-based coffee shop.

Ashley Elliott

Ashley Elliott, co-author of I Used to Be _____, devised and published a theory to help individuals gain insight into their thinking patterns that prevent them from reaching success in relationships at work and home. She is a licensed counselor and coach who specializes in grief and communication.

Cassie Custer

Cassie Custer has demonstrated success through her many titles, including being a student, barista, and soon-to-be author. Cassie is a junior at Oakland City University majoring in Business Administration with a Ministry Leadership concentration, a pastoral leadership minor, a servant leadership minor, a marketing certificate, and a management certificate.

Cicone Prince

Cicone Prince is a highly sought-after International Motivational Speaker, Award-Winning Author, and Personal Development Strategist who helps people objectively look at themselves. He is the CEO of CiconePrince.com, whose slogan is "Making Motivation Personal by Introducing You to Yourself."

Julie Payne-Kirchmeier

Dr. Julie Payne-Kirchmeier joined Indiana University in the newly created Vice President for Student Success role in August 2022, marking the first time an IU cabinet-level role focused on holistic student success across the university. She earned her B.S. degree in Genetics and her M.Ed. degree in Student Affairs Administration in Higher Education from Texas A&M University-College Station and her Ph.D. in Educational Leadership, Administration, and Foundations at Indiana State University.

Laurie Berry

Dr. Laurie Berry serves as the dean of students at the University of Southern Indiana. Prior to this appointment, Dr. Berry was the assistant dean of students for 8 years and the director of housing and residence life. Dr. Berry is committed to engaging and supporting students' holistic development. Throughout her career, Dr. Berry has been a collaborative and innovative leader who works to maximize systems and advocate for students.

Madison Toopes

Madison Toopes is a former NCAA Division II soccer player who went on to compete in the semi-professional leagues. She holds a Master of Science in Athletic Training and a Bachelor of Science in Health and Applied Fitness Science, with a minor in Sports Marketing. Madison now serves as the Social Media Manager and Marketing Assistant at her alma mater, Oakland City University, where she also teaches Social Media and E-Marketing. Through her teaching, she equips students with real-world strategies for solving modern marketing challenges. Outside of her work at OCU, Madison collaborates with local businesses to build strong, cohesive online brands.

Michelle Boone-Thornton

Ambassador Boone-Thornton is an esteemed educator, international speaker, and humanitarian dedicated to empowering individuals through education, mental health advocacy, and leadership development. Dr. Boone-Thornton has become a transformative voice in shaping the next generation of professionals with a distinguished career spanning academia, human services, and nonprofit leadership.

Micky Chhabda

Micky Chhabda is an expert in Marketing Mix Modeling (MMM) and Analytics Consulting with experience in Marketing Analytics, Business Consulting, Project Management, and Data Science. Micky specializes in leading transformative analytics projects across diverse industries, leveraging advanced tools and methodologies to optimize strategies and educate companies on where to put their next marketing dollar.

Peter Bond

Peter Bond is an Australian mining and energy executive, creator of the world's first synthetic crude oil, and most recently, CEO of the renewable energy company Infinite Power and ranked among Australia's most influential business executives in Who's Who Business.

Veronica Byrd

Working with others and actively participating in programs and community functions began at an early age for Veronic Byrd. She uses the parents-as-teachers model and works daily with at-risk families, helping them set and meet goals while promoting family-driven solutions.