College of Education Student, Faculty, and Alumni Voices Highlight Texas State University's TEDx
Charlcee Cervantez || February, 17, 2025
The College of Education will be well-represented at the 10th annual TEDxTexasStateUniversity event on Feb. 22, with a current student, a professor, and an alumnus among the seven speakers.
TEDx is a grassroots initiative inspired by TED’s mission to share “ideas worth spreading.” It brings the spirit of TED to local communities through independently organized events. The event coincides with the 60th anniversary of the signing of the Higher Education Act of 1965 on the university’s campus. This year’s theme, “Celebrating Legacy,” will delve into the act’s influence on higher education and the limitless possibilities within the field, according to event organizers.
The interactive conference will feature live speakers, entertainment, and audience activities. The event will be held at the Performing Arts Center Recital Hall from 12:30 p.m. to 4:30 p.m., with doors opening at 11:30 a.m.
Representing the College of Education are Sergio Carvajal-Leoni, Dr. Aitiana Sanchez-Garciaguirre and Dr. Zachary Thomas.
Sergio Carvajal-Leoni
Sergio Carvajal-Leoni, a Ph.D. student in Adult, Professional, and Community Education, will discuss “Taking Control of Your Digital Legacy: Bridging Learning Between Deceased and Living.” His talk will focus on intergenerational learning and utilizing digital tools to preserve stories of elders.
Dr. Aitiana Sanchez-Garciaguirre
Dr. Aitiana Sanchez-Garciaguirre, an assistant professor in the Department of Health and Human Performance, will present "Resilience and Mental Health Among College Students: Fostering a Supportive Campus Environment." Her research focuses on resilience, mental health, and alcohol use, particularly among Hispanic college students.
Dr. Zachary Thomas
Dr. Zachary Thomas, a PhD in School Improvement graduate and current Vandegrift High School teacher, will present “The Power of Human Connection in a Technological World.” Thomas, who was named the 2023 Texas Teacher of the Year, will discuss the importance of building relationships with students.