Modeled after “TED Talks” which are sponsored by a nonprofit organization devoted to the spread of a wide array of ideas, the University will hold its second annual TEDx program in Spring 2017.

The theme for this year’s TEDx event is “Uncharted Waters.” It will likely take place in March or April of 2017. On Nov. 15, the organizers of TEDx at the University sent out the speaker application for Spring 2017. The deadline for applications is tonight, Friday Dec. 2 at midnight.

The TED organization originated in 1984 and is based off Richard Saul Wurman’s observations around the convergence of technology, entertainment, and design. The program expanded over time and first debuted as a small conference held in Monterey, Calif.

TEDx programs emerged later as independent talks surrounding virtually any topic imaginable. They are now prevalent on college campuses nationwide.

Similarly, the University’s TEDx program is centered around spreading unique ideas through the medium of well-organized, cohesive talks given by chosen speakers.

“Our program prides itself on the diversity of topics that are discussed,” the organizer for Spring 2017’s TEDx event, Anthony Scrima ’18, said.

Last year’s program included talks on topics ranging from dance, to the legalization of marijuana, to mentorship.

Scrima spoke at last year’s event, citing this experience as his inspiration to become one of the lead organizers this year.

“Being able to develop a talk and present it in front of an audience was one of the most significant and powerful things I’ve done in my career,” Scrima said.

TEDx organizers hope to continue growing the program both on campus as well as in the greater Lewisburg area.