TEDx Talks will return to Arkansas State University this month after nine years. 

The idea to bring TEDx back to A-State started as an idea to extend Create@State. Organizers said they wanted another way for students to take their creativity a step forward. Originally, they expected mainly students to apply to participate, but the staff received more than 100 applications from individuals all over the world. 

“It was a shock; so many applications were unexpected,” said student organizer Seoung Ho Jeon. The 2026 version of A-State’s TEDx includes an opening panel and 26 speakers packed into one day. The event starts at the Fowler Center at 1 p.m. with a panel featuring ASU System President Todd Shields and State Senator Dan Sullivan who will discuss “The Future of AI and Higher Education in the Coming 10 Years.” Other topics planned include mentorship, rural health, and how to live joyfully.

Student organizers Jeon and Shanhjahan J. Memon said they strongly suggest students reserve a spot because capacity is limited. To reserve your seat, visit. Those who sign up before the event will receive an email survey and after completing the survey the individual’s name will be put in a drawing for a gift card. 

Jeon described the event as a learning opportunity. He said students should enter the building with a “What am I learning?” mindset. Each idea being presented was hand-picked for the student body by Jeon and Steve Leslie, associate professor of business communication. 

“It is a good place to learn good ideas,” Jeon said.  “If you are blocked in life or lost in direction and listen to a TEDx talk you could figure out a direction to take even if it does not directly correlate with your situation.”

A topic that does correlate with students is Christin Webbs’ “What Happens When Leaders Stop Abandoning Their Voices” which begins at 2:45 p.m. 

Webb, who earned her bachelor’s and graduate degree in social work and business administration from the University of Tennessee, applied to speak at the event because she has previously been a public speaker and has admired TEDx Talks.  

“It was surreal to be selected, an honor even,” Webb said. “The expectation of excellence is a little terrifying but it is beautiful.” 

While preparing for her appearance Webb mentioned that despite the pressure, she has to be brave enough to put herself out of her comfort zone and that we all have a responsibility to use our voices. The topics chosen for the TEDx event are in hopes for genuine conversations that students need to hear. Webb said she absolutely advised students to apply for the future TEDx events held at A-State. She encourages students to use their voices. 

“If you want it, go after it,” Webb said. 

Jeon said he would like to see A-State continue hosting TEDx Talks. “This is the first of many more I hope,” Jeon said. “TEDx should help serve as a gateway for students to learn as well as find the passion to use their voice.”

The event will be filmed and posted on YouTube via the TEDx channel, so students can revisit any ideas that inspired them. The video is also for those who cannot attend.

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