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).

Younts Conference Center
1250 Duncan Chapel Rd
Greenville, South Carolina, 29617
United States

Devin Lyall

Devin Lyall is the founding Executive Director of a Recovery Community Organization located in North Carolina. Devin has been directly impacted by her own chaotic Substance Use and Mental Health and brings the lens of lived experience to her work. As a dedicated community organizer and educator, Devin brings passion and practical knowledge of serving, mobilizing, and organizing directly impacted individuals. Ms. Lyall is the recipient of many accolades and her work has received recognition and mention in many news publications and journals.

Dr. Shaniece Criss

Dr. Shaniece Criss is an Associate Professor and Director of the Master of Arts in Advocacy and Equity Studies at Furman University. As a founding member of the Big Data for Health Equity Research Collaborative, she works with researchers from across the U.S. to investigate how societal issues impact health. In the Peace Corps, Dr. Criss served as producer and host of a national television show for Guyana’s Ministry of Health. While at Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health, she earned her doctorate and birthed a child – two accomplishments that make her really proud.

Dusty Folwarczny

Dusty Folwarczny earned her BFA in Sculpture from Truman State University and is a well-known sculptor in Chicago. After half a decade of independent contracting and artwork, Dusty co-founded Ink Factory, a visual arts company that works with dozens of Fortune 100 companies, bringing visual notetaking to businesses and various organizations to create visual experiences that inspire and engage.

Isaiah Ives

Isaiah Ives is a Furman University Class of 2023 Middle Eastern Studies and History major. Well known for his role in the Furman University Paladin Regiment Marching Band, the train horn that is incorporated into his vehicle, and creator and builder of the Furman K’nex Bridge display, Isaiah is an avid creator and known member of the Furman community. Isaiah is the founder and president of the Furman Bridge Authority; The operations and maintenance group responsible for the upkeep of the Furman K'nex Bridge display and has experienced what it takes to share creative ideas.

Nate Johnson

Nate Johnson is a Furman University Class of 2023 Economics major with a concentration in Philosophy. Nate has always been interested in the topic of human behavior and in a true liberal arts fashion, has also taken an interest in psychology, specifically social psychology. Throughout his Furman career, Nate has given presentations on growth mindsets, utilizing concepts he has learned throughout his coursework. After school, Nate is looking to synthesize his interests and enter the world of mental health technology.

Rob Wilder

Rob Wilder is a retired High School science educator who taught for 33 years. Mr. Wilder established the Envirothon program at Spartanburg High School in 1999 and still serves as the team's advisor. Growing up and living in Spartanburg, SC, Mr. Wilder loved the outdoors and wanted to provide his students with some of the same opportunities he had through using a hands-on approach to environmental education and establishing Envirothon.

Zac Hadlock

Zac Hadlock is currently the Adoption Team Manager at Furkids Animal Rescue and Shelters in Georgia. Zac was a Communications major in college and earned his bachelor's degree in Strategic Organizational Communications. Since then he has held various professional positions but has enjoyed working in nonprofit communications for many years. Zac enjoys sharing what he has learned throughout his career with people including communication and channeling strengths into something that gives back to and advocates for others.