TEDxSBU returns to Stony Brook University

Posted on March 10, 2026 by Jennifer Adams

After a ten-year hiatus, TEDxSBU is returning to Stony Brook University in 2026, inviting the campus community to once again share bold ideas, creative insights, and transformative stories on a global stage. Nominations for speakers are now officially open.

Organized by members of the Stony Brook community and primarily sponsored by the SBU Libraries, TEDxSBU 2026 will explore the theme “Uncharted Dissonance.” In music, dissonance creates tension that demands resolution. In the world around us, dissonance appears in areas such as climate change, emerging technologies, social structures, and identity. Rather than avoiding these tensions, the event will explore how moments of dissonance can spark discovery, creativity, and meaningful change.

The organizing team is inviting nominations from across the Stony Brook community, including faculty, staff, students, and alumni. Individuals may nominate someone they believe has a compelling idea worth sharing or self-nominate if they wish to present their own perspective.

“TEDx events are about powerful ideas that can inspire people and shift how we see the world,” said the TEDxSBU organizing team. “After ten years, we are thrilled to bring this platform back to Stony Brook and highlight the innovative thinking already happening across our community.”

Selected speakers will present short, carefully crafted talks designed to engage audiences and contribute to the global TEDx library of ideas.

Speaker nominations are open now and can be submitted through the official nomination form:

Submit a Speaker Nomination

Additional event details, including the date and speaker lineup, will be announced in the coming months.

About TEDx

TEDx events are independently organized programs licensed by TED that bring people together to share ideas in a TED-style experience. Combining live speakers and recorded TED Talks, TEDx events aim to spark deep discussion and connection in communities around the world.

About TEDxSBU

TEDxSBU is the official independently organized TEDx event hosted at Stony Brook University. The event highlights innovative ideas and voices from across the Stony Brook community.