GSW hosts TEDx event highlighting student perseverance and creativity

by Sabrina Hagler, Editor-In-Chief

On Friday, April 8th, Georgia Southwestern hosted its first TEDx event in the Magnolia Manor Nursing Auditorium. Focusing on perpetuating perseverance and creativity on campus, 9 speakers presented on the challenges they have faced and how persevering and thinking creatively has enabled them to follow their dreams, make it against all odds to college, or even start a business and travel the world.

In 2021, Jerome Harney, an online MBA student, approached Dr. Irina Toteva with the proposition to host a TEDx event to connect online students to the campus and the Americus community. With Provost Dr. Suzanne Smith as the TEDx licensee, that proposition came to life this month in the form of a compelling and pleasant event.

Photo by University Relations

The GSW Alumni Jazz Band filled the auditorium and lobby with music, playing upbeat and entertaining jazz. In the video above is Leah Anglin (vocals), Mike Green (trombone), Dr. Mark Laughlin (piano), Alex Helms (guitar), Russ Thompson (bass), and Lenard Martin Jr. (drums).

Watch video of the GSW Alumni Jazz Band at https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=l-ExB45tlVQ

Video by Sabrina Hagler

The event was hosted by emcee Scott Westbrook and featured community presenters as well as 3 student speakers, Jacqueline Granado, Ashley Carag, and Lorelle Carey. These students are a testament to the vision of GSW as diverse and intellectual individuals that have persevered through their tribulations and devoted themselves to change.

Student TEDx speakers Ashley Carag, Lorelle Carey, and Jacqueline Granado

Photo by University Relations.

Check out videos of the event on the TEDxGeorgiaSouthwesternU Youtube page and be on the lookout for future TEDx events at GSW!

Photo by University Relations