Thursday, March 26, students gathered in the Sadler Center’s Commonwealth Auditorium for the College of William and Mary’s 13th annual TEDx event. The topic of this year’s talks was “The Next 250: Building a Future That Values Purpose Over Progress.”
TEDx student co-chair Elijah Glassford ’28 spoke about the theme’s significance.
“We wanted it to be sort of a path forward and a way to look forward to 250 years instead of always looking back,” Glassford said. “Of course, it’s extremely important what our history has led us to today. But it was really fun to hear from individuals and how they view the next 250 in the United States.”
Seven College community members spoke about a diverse range of subjects, delving into their interpretations of the theme.
“I think that the speakers captured a good range of classes and experiences,” attendee Avika Amin ’29 said. “Each of them had a unique experience to share.”
Jason Zheng ’26, the first speaker, delivered a talk inspired by his cultural background and upbringing. He emphasized his passion for civic leadership and service.
Following Zheng, Eva Jaber ’28 discussed art’s potential as a form of political advocacy.
Glassford, an art history major himself, appreciated the topic.
“To hear Eva’s insight on how our relationship is much more than just the visual experience, that was very powerful because it is a muscle for change,” Glassford said.
Technology analyst Dave Sobel ’97 spoke next about the power of small businesses and the transformation of technology in the country.
Next, audience members heard from Director of Conflict Resolution and Education Emily Gerst, who highlighted conversation value and cancel culture’s shortcomings. Her speech was inspired by country singer Morgan Wallen and his controversies.
Julia Viesi ’29, a member of the College’s women’s tennis team, was the fifth speaker. Her talk centered on purposeful action as a means to achieve success.
The penultimate speaker, visiting professor of finance and Executive Partner at the Raymond A. Mason School of Business Tina Foraker-Blackwell, stressed the significance of financial literacy.
Following the event, Foraker-Blackwell shared her presentation’s takeaway.
“Inform yourself, ask others, take a class, but be informed and understand that you’re enabling your independence and frankly that for the next generation,” Foraker-Blackwell said.
Jenny Wang ’29, who discussed her interpretation of consumption trends as a GenZer, concluded the event.
After reading an out-of-touch article about consumerism, Wang said she wanted to highlight attainable goals for students with purchasing power.
“Go out there, find who you are, make sure you know who you are without having to buy it,” she said. “Whether it is literally buying things, or it’s consuming copious amounts of media, or doing other things, make sure you have a good community, a good support system, and make sure you experience life to find who you are.”
Student attendees appreciated the speakers’ perspectives.
“A lot of times, we sort of lose that idea of what our purpose is,” attendee Daisy Maxwell ’29 said. “And so I think that it’s important, especially as college students, to hear other people’s perspectives.”
