2023 TEDxSHSU

TEDxSHSU – 2023

• Theme

  TEDxSHSU 2023 Theme: Tapestries

  Humans are hard-wired to share knowledge, stories, and perspectives. From the beginning of recorded history, we have shared ideas through cave art, song, epic poetry, painting, sculpture, drums, music, the written word, symbols, and computer codes; by land, sea, air, outer space, and vast global digital networks; and in person-to-person relationships, families, and communities.

  Our theme for TEDxSHSU 2023 is Tapestries. Throughout time, tapestries have played a pivotal role in conveying stories, recording history, sharing knowledge, sparking wonder, and spreading ideas.

  We can think of tapestries both physically and metaphorically.

  Physically, a tapestry is a complex woven piece of textile, often made from wool, linen, silk, thread, or other materials. Tapestries have appeared in almost every global context – in ancient civilizations and across continents, populations, and cultures. You might be familiar with famous tapestries – such as the Bayeux Tapestry, which depicts the Norman Conquest, or tapestries from the Qing Dynasty in what is now called China. Modern cooperative bodies, such as the United Nations, continue to weave tapestries to share global visions of cooperation and peace.

  Tapestries take many shapes. You might envision giant wall tapestries - and this is often the form they took traditionally – but tapestries can also be small, covering a table or piece of furniture; they can even function as bed coverings, pillows, or fashion accessories. In modern times, production of tapestries has become more commercialized, but their function remains the same: to use images and design to share big ideas.

  And indeed, tapestries have been used to spread all kinds of ideas. Throughout history, tapestries have conveyed information for hunting, planting, and agriculture; to document military conquest and warfare; to inspire social movements and societal change; for spiritual exploration and sharing religious ideas; as a means of documenting landscapes and important people; and for capturing ideas about ceremony, art, music, drama, and the human form. In other words – we have always used tapestries to share big ideas.

  Metaphorically, tapestries can symbolize people, ideas, perspectives, questions, answers, and cultures woven together into great beauty, insight, and knowledge. This ancient art form tells us something about the importance of spreading ideas across space and time.

  TED and TEDx events bring together people from every background to contemplate, interrogate, dialogue about, and put ideas into action. Each of the talks at TEDxSHSU 2023 is part of a large tapestry of ideas – what TED calls “Ideas worth spreading.” Think of each idea and conversation as a thread in a global tapestry. We all have something to contribute.

  Each speaker is a thread. This year’s speakers challenge us to consider a range of important ideas: addressing societal public health concerns and gaps in human relational empathy; thinking about life’s big “what-if” questions; overcoming tragedy and disappointment while finding joy and meaning; rethinking how personal loss can change the course of an entire realm of scientific study; envisioning educational environments where neurodivergence is celebrated; introducing us to lessons from the world’s greatest superpredator; managing our biggest fears and building resilience; and imagining how we use emerging digital technologies to share our purpose and push the limits of neuroscientific discovery. Our TEDxSHSU speakers each add beautiful, strong, unique ideas and perspectives to our collective idea tapestry.

  Each audience member is a thread. Like all TEDx events, TEDxSHSU harnesses the power of dialogue, introspection, connection, and wonder of every attendee and partner. We come together each year at TEDxSHSU to build a space where divergent threads of people, perspectives, and cultures are woven together into a tapestry of care, concern, compassion, and curiosity.

  Together we are a beautiful tapestry. Together we build. Together we strive. Together we share. Together we envision a different and better world. Together, at TEDxSHSU 2023, we weave the future.

• Schedule

  Session 1 Talks: 9:00 AM – 11:00 AM

  
  

  Science Worth Dancing About

  Andy Noble

  
  

  Does dancing transform the brain? An arts-science team comprised of choreographers, composers, and neuroscientists uses neuro-engineering breakthroughs to study the dancer's brain in action and investigate the ways that dance enhances brain development. Choreographer Andy Noble shares how the artform of dance, with its ability to tap into our creative, emotional, and physical selves, is a prime candidate for neuroscientific study. A live performance/experiment shows the brain activity of two dancers, Tyler Orcutt and Lauren Serrano, as they dance an excerpt from Meeting of the Minds. A neuroscience team, led by Dr. Jose Contreras-Vidal, captures brain data from the dancers in real time. Choreography is by Andy and Dionne Noble and music is composed by Dr. Anthony Brandt.

  
  

  Seasoned Conversations on the What-Ifs: A Realtor's Perspective

  Angela McCants

  
  

  As we approach our golden years, we must make informed lifestyle decisions and embrace self-awareness. This talk is a journey that explores the power of knowledge, preparedness, and empowerment in shaping the last chapter of our lives. Through heartfelt stories and practical insights, we learn how equipping ourselves with information and embracing confidence can profoundly impact not only our well-being but also the well-being of our cherished family members. Join us as we navigate the uncharted waters of our last quarter with grace, dignity, and fulfillment, uncovering the beauty that awaits when we empower ourselves and our loved ones to make choices that align with our deepest aspirations. This empowering call to action reminds us that with the right knowledge and mindset, we can ensure that our final chapter is a testament to a life well-lived.

  
  

  Doodle Away Your Fears and Worries

  Kendra "Birdie" Rodriguez

  
  

  Drawing is a great way to express yourself, and it can be used to face your fears. The world is a scary place, with or without an anxiety disorder, and coping mechanisms aren't talked about as freely as they should be. Drawing what you are scared of gives you control over that thing, which can then be confronted and conquered.

  
  

  Shifting Your Food Mindset

  Joseph S. Galati

  
  

  Dr. Joe Galati shares the story of a disease that affects 80 to 100 million Americans, the majority of which is related to the food choices we make. Fatty liver disease is a healthcare tsunami. Obesity related complications, in addition to fatty liver, include diabetes, cardiovascular disease, and cancer. Childhood obesity has quadrupled over the past 30 years, and children are being afflicted with chronic disease previously reserved for older adults. Healthcare spending is up, yet life expectancy in the United States is one of the lowest in developed nations around the world. As a society, we have grown dependent on processed foods, devoid of nutritional value. Food and cooking literacy is at an all-time low and cooking healthful meals at home is a thing of the past. Food and nutrition education, along with increased cooking skills, is the solution.

  
  
  

  Session 2 Talks: 1:00 PM - 3:00 PM

  
  

  The Super Predator You Know Nothing About

  Kelbi Delaune

  
  

  In a world that tries to squeeze humans into neat little packages– where conformity is an essential element- it can be almost encouraged to lose sight of our true complexity and diversity. Actor turned scientist Kelbi Delaune takes us on a journey illuminating what a super predator can teach us about kicking stereotypes, filling our own niche, celebrating our traits, and ultimately creating resilience in our lives.

  
  

  Education is a Privilege: Perseverance in College

  Charise Lincoln

  
  

  For many, pursuing a college education comes with severe suffering and obstacles. When these stressors become overwhelming, a college education may become difficult, if not completely impossible. In this talk, listeners will discover the skill of persevering through their struggles so that they can achieve their dreams, and not be swept away by life's chaos.

  
  

  Unlocking Potential: Bilingual Learners, Dyslexia, and the Path to Inclusive Education

  Francisco "Paco" Usero Gonzalez

  
  

  This talk explores the captivating journey of bilingual students facing neurobiological challenges, such as dyslexia, in their pursuit of literacy across languages. Drawing inspiration from personal experiences and a resilient young learner named Maria, this TED talk delves into the complexities of the intersection of bilingual education and special education. In a world where English-centric approaches dominate, we confront the struggle of bilingual students who must navigate the intricate nuances of two languages. The talk emphasizes the importance of tailored assessments and interventions, considering both the native and target languages, while championing a linguistically and culturally responsive pedagogy. By fostering awareness, equipping educators, and involving families, we can reshape the narrative and provide every "Maria" with the tools to shine in her educational journey. Join the call to action for a more inclusive, empowering, and equitable bilingual education, where diverse learners reach their full potential.

  
  

  Reclaiming Joy After Tragedy

  Anthony Timmons

  
  

  On May 18th, 2018, the unspeakable happened at Santa Fe High School when a gunman began opening fire. 10 innocent people lost their lives that day. Anthony was only a sophomore when the shooting happened and, in the aftermath, became lost in his grief and pain. He slowly lost interest in life and started to spiral down into a dark depression until, after months of what felt like agony, he decided to transfer schools. While shy and still grieving, Anthony found a loving and supportive community at his new school. He was able to open up and find peace in his new friends and community. In his experience, he learned the power of love, the value of life, and the importance of kindness. This is his story of how he overcame his situation and reclaimed the joy he had lost.

  
  
  

  Session 3 Talks: 3:30 PM - 5:30 PM

  
  

  The Empathy Equation: E=P²

  Deji Akingbade

  
  

  Empathy is generally understood as the ability to put yourself in somebody else's shoes, to see things from their perspective. If we simplified this definition of empathy into a math equation, it would be E=P, Empathy = Perspective. However, this equation for resolving conflict in relationships is incomplete. This talk offers insights on how we might expand the empathy equation and challenges listeners to rethink empathy in their own lives, and the world.

  
  

  Loss to Legacy Through Research: A Mother's Story

  Lisa Connor

  
  

  The grief that comes with the loss of a child is a journey with no end. But sometimes loss sparks hope. In this talk, Lisa describes how the loss of her child led to a legacy of research and discovery of a gene with important medical implications. Foundational knowledge from the cells of her child has supported discovery of potential therapy for many diseases, including cancer. In this talk Lisa hopes to support those who have suffered fetal loss and miscarriage in coming to understand that while genetics may be the reason for their loss, research leads to amazing new discovery and understanding about the human body.

  
  

  Elevating Your Mission Through Social Media

  Pavi Theva

  
  

  In today's digital landscape, social media often bears the burden of a common misconception: that it's a breeding ground for toxicity and an endless source of distraction. It's a notion that has seeped into our collective consciousness, where meaningful connection is elusive amidst the cacophony of viral trends and fleeting memes. In this enlightening talk, Pavi Theva embarks on a mission to challenge this prevailing belief. With a fresh perspective, she uncovers the hidden potential within social media—a potential that transcends the often-painted portrait of distraction and discord. Pavi shares her own transformative journey, through real-life stories and actionable practices on how you can transform your social media experience into something profoundly meaningful. It's all about how you choose to use this powerful tool.

  
  

  What Do You Want (To Be) When You Grow Up?

  Sarah Swift

  
  

  A question we are often asked as a child is, "what do you want to be when you grow up?" This question sets us in a direction that many of us follow for the rest of our lives… until we don't. For a variety of reasons, people change directions, or end up in a different place than they had imagined they would be. In her talk, Swift discusses the complexities that come when dreams are changed or become out of reach. She talks about how many feel that they have failed their younger selves or feel disappointed in the outcome of their life. Swift shares her personal experience and challenges her audience to think deeply about their own happiness as she dissects what it truly means to be chasing your dreams.

• TEDxSHSU 2023 Talks
  Deji Akingbade
  The Empathy Equation:E=P²

  Deji Akingbade is an experienced business leader and philosopher from Dallas, Texas. He is a mentor and loves to share his business and philosophical insights with others via his LinkedIn newsletter. When not working, Deji likes to spend his time being active or watching old 80's action movies.

  Lisa Connor
  Loss to Legacy Through Research: A Mother's Story

  Lisa Connor is a Research & Instruction Librarian supporting the College of Health Sciences at Sam Houston State University. She has a BS in Nutrition from Pennsylvania State University, and an MS in Library & Information Science from Drexel University. She also completed a grant-funded novel 22-credit course of study from Simmons University to earn an Advanced Inter-professional Informationist Certificate as one of seven in the United States to advance the skills of health sciences librarians. In her role she supports faculty and students by education and consultation of evidence-based information resources. She is an Assistant Professor with research interests supported by National Institutes of Health funding for engagement with the All of Us Research Program which motivates her passion for the promise of data to advance and accelerate personalized medicine and rare disease treatments.

  Kelbi Delaune
  The Super Predator You Know Nothing About

  Dr. Kelbi Delaune is a multifaceted academic driven by a passion for nature and thirst for knowledge. With a diverse background, she has excelled in various fields, combining her skills in communication with her love for nature. She earned her BFA in Theatre before embarking on a career in the sciences where she went on to receive her PhD in aquatic ecology. Throughout her journey, she has developed a deep appreciation for the value of strong mentors and believes in the transformational power of education. Kelbi has worked with learners of all ages in teaching formally as well as STEM outreach and engagement, encouraging all to become lifelong learners. With a track record of over 40 research presentations and invited speaking engagements, she seeks to bridge the gap between academia and society, making science accessible and exciting.

  Joseph S. Galati
  Shifting Your Food Mindset

  Dr. Joe Galati is a liver disease expert, researcher, educator, and author, with over 32 years of experience. A native of Long Island, NY, he was raised in a family where good nutrition and family were ways of life. Today, his practice, Liver Specialists of Texas, is devoted to the care of patients with all facets of liver diseases. Dr. Galati is the Medical Director of the Sherrie and Alan Conover Center for Liver Disease & Transplantation at Houston Methodist Hospital. A graduate of Syracuse University, his postgraduate training in internal medicine, gastroenterology, hepatology, and transplant medicine took place in New York City, and University of Nebraska.

  Since 2003, Dr. Galati has created consumer-oriented radio programming on health and wellness, hosting "Your Health First," heard each weekend on the iHeart Radio network. He recently published an Amazon best-selling book, Eating Yourself Sick, sharing with readers strategies to avoid chronic disease.

  Charise Lincoln
  Education is a Privilege: Perserverance in College

  Charise Lincoln is a first-generation SHSU student with a Psychology major and Astronomy minor. Aside from pursuing psychological research in trauma and nature therapy using astronomy, she is a part of TRIO SSS, Alpha Lambda Delta Honor Society, and a previous member of the Freshman Leadership Program.

  Angela McCants
  Seasoned Conversations on the What-Ifs: A Realtor's Perspective

  Angela McCants is a luxury broker associate in Dallas, Texas. A native to the vibrant heart of Dallas, Angela has cultivated a deep understanding of the local real estate landscape, making her a trusted advisor in one of the nation's most dynamic housing markets for over two decades. Angela also holds dual certification as a Senior Advisor and Senior Housing Professional, which speaks to her dedication and expertise. This unique combination of qualifications brings an unmatched level of market knowledge and negotiation skills, ensuring that her clients receive the highest level of service and knowledge, especially in their golden years.

  Angela has been married for 29 years and is the proud mother of four children. Her passion for fostering connections and providing support led her to found and moderate "Seasoned Conversations," a non-profit organization dedicated to facilitating meaningful discussions and providing resources for seniors and their families.

  Andy Noble
  Science Worth Dancing About

  Andy Noble is Co-Artistic Director of NobleMotion Dance and a Professor at Sam Houston State University. Andy's body of work includes 21 evening-length productions and over 150 dances. His focus on innovation and interdisciplinary work has led to collaborations with neuroscientists, A.I. designers, industrial designers, light artists, composers, poets, musicians, and photographers. Most notably, he worked with Academy Award winner John Ridley to create original choreography featured on the Emmy Award Winning and Golden Globe Nominated ABC TV show American Crime. His work has been performed internationally and presented at The Kennedy Center, The Lincoln Center, and Wolf Trap for the Performing Arts. Additionally, his choreography has been presented by Repertory Dance Theatre, Dallas Black Dance Theatre, and Bruce Wood Dance to name a few. Andy is an educator, performer, and choreographer, and his work directing NobleMotion has led to the organization being awarded Houston's Best Dance Company.

  Kendra "Birdie" Rodriguez
  Doodle Away Your Fears and Worries

  Kendra "Birdie" Rodrigue is an undergraduate honors student at Sam Houston State University. She was born in Sugar Land, then moved to Katy when she was 12, where she later graduated from Cinco Ranch High School. She is studying environmental science and hopes to do field work in the future. She is a nature lover and avid birdwatcher, but also enjoys video games and calls with friends. She has been treated for anxiety for over four years, and wants to share her journey towards her happiest self.

  Sarah Swift
  What Do You Want (To Be) When You Grow Up

  Sarah Swift is a senior honors student at Sam Houston State University, pursuing her BFA in Musical Theatre. She is the current Miss Houston titleholder as part of the Miss America Scholarship Organization and has spoken to hundreds of children in her community about the importance of personal health and spending time outdoors. She also had the opportunity to share her platform on live television this past summer on the Miss Texas stage. She has a podcast, Lemonade Lifestyle, where she explores finding the good in life and taking opportunities as they are thrown in your path. She enjoys rock climbing, hiking, and playing board games in her free time. Sarah plans to graduate Spring of 2024 and continue spreading her passions for health and positivity, both on the stage and in everyday life in her community.

  Pavi Theva
  Elevating Your Mission Through Social Media

  Pavi Theva is a Life and Career Success Coach, Mindfulness Teacher, Podcast Host, and Speaker in the realm of self-growth. She is passionate about helping individuals unlock their full potential. With a focus on college students, graduates, corporate professionals, and entrepreneurs, she guides individuals in creating fulfilling careers in alignment with their 'Dharma'—the true essence of who they are. Pavi assists her clients in connecting with their career goals, achieving peak performance, up-leveling their mindset in both life and work, building confidence, and ultimately creating lives and careers they can be proud of.

  Pavi earned her Masters in Information Systems from the Kelley School of Business at Indiana University. Her extensive experience includes leading business and product strategies for Silicon Valley startups, Big 4 consulting firms, and high-tech companies such as Amazon.

  Anthony Timmons
  Reclaiming Joy After Tragedy

  Anthony Timmons is a senior at Sam Houston State University, majoring in kinesiology and pursuing physical therapy. Anthony has a deep passion for health science and fitness and for promoting student health and wellness. He serves as a member on the Student Health and Wellness Advisory Board and the College of Health Sciences Dean's Advisory Committee. In addition, Anthony is a group fitness instructor with the SHSURec Center, teaching yoga and different fitness classes. Anthony has also worked extensively with the kinesiology department and regularly volunteers with the College of Health Sciences. Anthony is a big advocate for promoting mental health awareness and teaches mindfulness and meditation. In his free time, he loves to read, garden, and make wine.

  Francisco "Paco" Usero Gonzalez
  Unlocking Potential: Bilingual Learners, Dyslexia, and the Path to Inclusive Education

  Dr. Francisco (Paco) Usero González, an Assistant Professor in Sam Houston State University's Bilingual Education Program, boasts 15 years of diverse K-12 educational experience across Spain, the UK, France, and the USA. Holding multiple BA and MEd degrees in Education, along with a PhD in Curriculum and Instruction, he exemplifies academic commitment. Dr. Usero González, or Professor Paco as he prefers to be called by his students, has garnered recognition and awards for his outstanding contributions to education, with a research focus on neurobiological specific learning disabilities and the needs of Spanish-speaking emergent bilingual students. His passion for multilingual and multicultural education is evident through innovative instructional technology exploration, family engagement, and the implementation of the Multi-tiered System of Support (MTSS) to empower Hispanic bilingual students. Driven by a dedication to advancing the field, he shares insights through publications in esteemed journals and presentations at national and international conferences.

• Sponsors and Partners

  Sponsor

  TEDxSHSU 2023 was sponsored by the Elliott T. Bowers Honors College. Thank you for your generous support!

  

  For more information about the Honors College, visit https://www.shsu.edu/academics/honors/.

  Partners

  TEDxSHSU is also grateful to the many partners who helped to make our 2023 event possible.

  Division of Academic Affairs
   College of Arts & Media
    Department of Mass Communication
    Department of Theatre & Musical Theatre
   Office of the Provost
    Office of Research and Sponsored Programs
    SHSU Online
  Division of Strategic Enrollment Innovation
    Strategic Innovations
  Division of Student Affairs
   Lowman Student Center
  Division of University Advancement
   Integrated Marketing Communications

• TEDxSHSU 2023 Team

  TEDxSHSU Co-Directors

  Renée Gravois, Ph.D.
  Associate Professor of Marketing
  College of Business Administration
  

  Paul Eaton, Ph.D.
  Associate Professor of Educational Leadership
  College of Education
  
  

  TEDxSHSU Production Team

  Videography
  Live Event Production Students, under the direction of Martin Gaston
  

  Stage Design
  Theater Students, under the direction of Nicholas Graves
  

  
  

  TEDxSHSU 2023 Coaches
  Dana Bible
  Brian Blackburne
  Paul Eaton
  Kathleen Gilbert
  Renée Gravois
  Elisa Herrmann
  Forrest Lane
  Ricardo Montelongo
  Kandi Tayebi
  

  TEDxSHSU Honors College Team

  Kimberly Bell, Ph.D.
  Dean, Elliott T. Bowers Honors College
  Professor of English
  

  Patrick J. Lewis, Ph.D.
  Associate Dean, Elliott T. Bowers Honors College
  Associate Professor of Biological Sciences
  

  Connie Rodriguez
  Administrative Coordinator, Elliott T. Bowers Honors College
  

  Abigail Roberson
  Administrative Associate II, Elliott T. Bowers Honors College