TEDx is bringing ideas worth spreading to Kwantlen Polytechnic University

Tue, Sep 23, 2014

Richmond, B.C. – Ideas worth spreading are coming to Kwantlen Polytechnic University (KPU).

On Saturday, Sept. 27, a dozen highly acclaimed speakers will share fascinating research, astounding personal stories and insight on relevant, current, edgy topics for the launch of TEDxKPU.

Hosted at the university’s Melville Centre for Dialogue in Richmond, TEDxKPU is open to the public, and set to engage, empower and evolve.

Speakers include Dr. Tom Waller, director of product innovation, research and development at lululemon; KPU’s own Katie Warfield, a global leader on researching selfies; Mark Donnelly, known for his impeccable operatic singing of O’ Canada at Vancouver Canucks home games, and; world-renowned percussionist Dr. Salvador Ferreras, provost and vice-president academic at KPU.

Topics range in style and scope, and include: the impact of homophobic humour, unlocking the potential of place-based food systems, a personal journey up Mount Kilimanjaro, and viewing the concept of “genius” through the lens of one of the most controversial turning points in modern art history.

The full-day event is packed with new, exciting and thought-provoking ideas. Open to the public, TEDxKPU has been designed to appeal to students, faculty, the public and keen, interested lifelong learners.

“I was very excited when I found out that KPU would be hosting a TEDx event. It's a really great opportunity for students, instructors and members of the community to get together and discuss topics that can change each other's lives,” said Bonnie Chi, a recent KPU alumna. “While I can easily pull up TED or TEDx videos on my computer to watch, knowing that KPU is hosting a TEDx event is something completely different. This is suddenly something that is very real and very close to home.“

Interspersed between engaging and empowering talks will be musical performances by KPU students. These include a spoken word performance by Kalvonix and Big Love, and songs performed by Emily Williams and Mae Velasco

Livestreaming will be available at KPU’s Surrey and Langley campuses. For speakers, tickets and general information, visit: kpu.ca/tedx. For questions on TEDxKPU, email tedx@kpu.ca or call 604.599.2078.

Kwantlen Polytechnic University has been serving the Metro Vancouver region since 1981, and has opened doors to success for more than 250,000 people. Four campuses—Richmond, Surrey, Cloverdale and Langley—offer a comprehensive range of sought-after programs, including business, liberal arts, science, design, health, trades and technology, horticulture, and academic and career advancement. Over 19,000 students annually have a choice from over 124 programs, including bachelor’s degrees, associate degrees, diplomas, certificates citations and apprenticeships. Learn more at www.kpu.ca.

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Media contact:
Hayley Woodin
Media Specialist, KPU
t: 604.599.2883
c: 604.364.1288
hayley.woodin@kpu.ca

For more KPU news:
@KPUmedia
kpu.ca/newsroom
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