March 12, 2026

Get Early Bird Tickets Now, only $35 through Jan.31

Welcome to TEDxKalamazoo 2026

Kalamazoo is a city defined by big ideas and a profound passion for creativity. TEDxKalamazoo 2026 celebrates this spirit by uplifting powerful insights from our local community and beyond, fostering a vision of innovation and connection across Michigan.

This year, we are thrilled to host our event on March 12, 2026, in the heart of the city’s cultural scene. Beyond a lineup of incredible speakers, attendees will enjoy tours of the Epic Center, offering a unique opportunity to gain insights into leading arts and entertainment organizations. The evening will be further brought to life with live performances by local musicians and dancers.

Join us for an unforgettable evening dedicated to resiliency, new beginnings, and "ideas worth spreading".

2026 Speakers

  • Jana Curtis

    WHEN THE SYSTEM LABELS A CHILD AS BROKEN - WHAT WE DO INSTEAD

    Topic and Bio

  • Laird Walker

    WHY BASKETBALL HEALS WHAT TALK THERAPY CAN’T

    Topic and Bio

  • Dr. Emily Jacobs

    SAY YES TO LESS

    Topic and Bio

  • Rebekah Kik

    THOUSANDS OF COMMUNITY VOICES

    Topic and Bio

  • Susan Rosas

    THE ROLE OF NON-PROFITS WITHIN A GOVERNMENT’S RESPONSIBILITY TO ITS PEOPLE

    Topic and Bio

  • Russ Kavalhuna

    PRESIDENT, WESTERN MICHIGAN UNIVERSITY

    Read Bio

PRESENTING PARTNERS

EPIC CENTER PARTNERS

CREATIVE PARTNERS

What is TEDx?

In the spirit of ideas worth spreading, TED has created a program called TEDx. TEDx is a program of local, self-organized events that bring people together to share a TED-like experience. Our event is called TEDxKalamazoo, where x = independently organized TED event. At our TEDxKalamazoo event, TEDTalks video and live speakers will combine to spark deep discussion and connection in a small group. The TED Conference provides general guidance for the TEDx program, but individual TEDx events, including ours, are self-organized.

About TEDx Program