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).

Foothills Performing Arts Center
24 Market Street
Oneonta, New York, 13820
United States

Aaliyah Ghotra

Student

Aaliyah Singh Ghotra, a 14 year-old student starting 9th grade, is an accomplished hip hop dancer entering her third competitive season. Passionate about performing arts, she’s been practicing theatre for 3 years in middle school which landed her the lead role of Mary Poppins Jr. Theater has now given her the chance to enhance her skills as an actor in Village Theatre in Seattle. She is an avid advocate for anti-bullying and teen mental health, and has made it her mission to help other teens navigate the complex emotions and challenges that come with it.

Amelia Ransom

DEI + Leadership

Amelia Ransom, VP at Smartsheet, leads DEI and CSR. She excels in shaping culture, talent development, engagement and mentorship. A sought after speaker and community leader, she's on the board of Seattle Chamber of Commerce, Evergreen Goodwill, YWCA Seattle| King | Snohomish, Institute for Sustainable Diversity and Inclusion, and Leadership Tomorrow.

Cassandra Miller

Art + Performance + Public Relations

Cassandra Miller is the founder and president of Culture Rally and is seasoned in journalism, public relations, marketing, and arts management. She has worked on sold-out world premiere musicals, launched city-wide festivals, and led collaborative efforts in major cities and small towns. She is a proud Oneonta townie.

Marisa Cohen

Relationship Scientist + Therapist

Dr. Marisa T. Cohen is a relationship scientist, marriage and family therapist, and psychology professor. She founded Embracing Change Marriage and Family Therapy and is the author of From First Kiss to Forever: A Scientific Approach to Love, a book that relates relationship research to everyday experiences confronted by couples.

Troy Smith

Leader + Inspiration

Troy C. Smith is an inspiring speaker, servant leadership coach, and former #1 Sales Manager nationwide for GEICO with over 30 years of corporate experience. Now retired from GEICO, Troy has launched "TROY C. SMITH - Hope Inspirational Speaking LLC" to spread hope through his "Teach, Model, and Coach" methodology. A dedicated community leader, he is actively involved with United Ways of Central Florida, Charlotte County, and Lake & Sumter County, Big Brothers Big Sisters of Tampa Bay, and Reading Pals, providing HOPE; helping other people endure.