Past TEDx event

TEDxYouth@IMSA

Ripple

Took placeMarch 6, 2025
LocationAurora, Illinois, United States
FormatYouth
Big things often start with small ideas. This year, we’re focusing on how a single thought, action, or moment can spark change that spreads far and wide. It’s the little things that make the biggest impact, and we’re here to explore just how far those ripples of change can go. TEDxYouth@IMSA's goal this year is to showcase how even the smallest innovations and ideas can transform the lives of those around us. Join us as we celebrate the power of a ripple—because every great movement starts with a single drop.

Speakers

Speakers may not be confirmed. Check the event website for the latest lineup.

  • Dr. Shawn Bailey

    Our second speaker is Dr. Shawn Bailey, a member of the History/Social Science faculty here at IMSA. Dr. Bailey has a strong background in history, earning his undergraduate degree from the University of Notre Dame and his Master’s and Ph.D. from the University of Montana. His research focuses on the intersection of modern U.S. history and environmental history, specifically looking at public land use and national parks, and is currently working on a book titled Worth a Dam: Glacier View and the Preservation of Wild America. Dr. Bailey recently contributed a chapter titled “Neon River” to the book Rewilding the Urban Frontier (2024), which forms the basis for his talk today. Dr. Bailey’s talk will explore the history and environmental impact of the Chicago River, delving into the lasting consequences of human action in the early 1900s and how it continues to shape the river’s ecological health. This discussion will tie into the theme of “Ripple,” showing how decisions made long ago still affect us today. Please welcome Dr. Shawn Bailey with his talk titled “Neon River: Rethinking Chicago Environmental History and Hope in the Age of Humans.”

  • Luke YIn

    Our first student speaker for tonight is Luke Yin. Luke is a junior at IMSA and discovered a passion for tennis after buying a ping-pong table during the pandemic. He’s involved in several activities at IMSA, but he particularly enjoys being a part of the IMSA tennis team, something that began with something that began with a simple, spontaneous decision to try something new. What started as a small decision ended up transforming his health, confidence, and life in ways he never expected. In his talk, Luke will show us how even the smallest choices can spark big changes and challenge the idea that it’s too late to start something new. Please join me in welcoming Luke to the stage with “The Art of Starting Small.”

  • Tanvi Boddupalli

    Tanvi is currently a junior at IMSA who is involved with groups like the debate team and serves as the director of a national nonprofit called Project Save Our Skin. She is passionate about challenging the stereotypes surrounding physical appearance. Coming from a school where looks were heavily emphasized, she was taken aback by the judgment she faced at IMSA for something she used to be praised for. In her talk, Tanvi will discuss how taking pride in your appearance isn’t shallow—it’s a form of self-expression that can have meaningful impacts.

Organizing team