TEDx at Lake Forest High School Touches on Several Topics; Proves To Be Inspirational

Students, teachers, alumni and community members brought a number of topics to the table as part of the first ever TEDx event to be held at Lake Forest High School on Thursday.

TEDx is a global set of conferences under the slogan “Ideas Worth Spreading.” They pop up throughout the world and often offer inspiration.

On Thursday, speech topics ranged from following your dreams and accomplishing goals to the worldwide impact that would be made if everyone gave up eating meat one day a week and the hardships facing young girls in Africa.

“These kids are amazing,” said Judith Epcke, an employee for Lake Forest School District 67. “The level at which the kids had to prepare and to just think about these subjects and what’s really important. Kids are always impressive, but this is taking it to another level beyond what I could conceive.”

Helene Sudac was one of the students who shared the importance of having a powerful voice.

She talked about food production and how factory farming jeopardizes overall health and includes problems with social justice.

Read Patch’s LIVE BLOG on TEDxLFHS to see a full recap!

“I see this as an animal welfare issue first and foremost,” she said.

Ross Kugman was the second speaker and provided the most “pep” - detailing his journey through obstacles to eventually be enrolled in the London Academy of Music and Art.

Superintendent Mike Simeck said the TEDx team, led by faculty organizers Joe DeRosa, Steve Douglass, Laura Grigg and Jimmy Juliano, is an “amazing team of students, teachers and community members.”

He, along with many others in attendance, are hoping TEDxLFHS becomes a yearly event.

Read about what it takes to organize a Ted Talk:

LFHS Pumped for First Ted Talk