In the spirit of ideas worth spreading, TEDx is a program of local, self-organized events that bring people together to share a TED-like experience. At a TEDx event, TEDTalks video and live speakers combine to spark deep discussion and connection in a small group. These local, self-organized events are branded TEDx, where x = independently organized TED event. The TED Conference provides general guidance for the TEDx program, but individual TEDx events are self-organized (subject to certain rules and regulations).

WITCC Rocklin Center
4647 Stone Ave
Sioux City, Iowa, 51106
United States

Jennifer McCune

Jennifer McCune is a CPA and college accounting instructor who brings real-world experience and innovative approaches to the classroom, empowering diverse learners to succeed. She is also the architect of Comet CLASS, an innovative leadership initiative designed to align with the college’s mission of fostering inclusive and transformative education. The program has become a cornerstone for student engagement and success, creating belonging, advocacy, and personal growth for countless students. As the spouse of a first responder and mother of four, Jennifer draws inspiration from her family’s values of service, resilience, and connection, which guide her work as an educator and mentor. Her advocacy includes championing Count the Kicks, a program dedicated to empowering expectant mothers with tools to monitor their babies’ health and prevent stillbirths. She is inspired by how the program transforms loss and pain into purpose, raising awareness and saving lives. An award-winning educator, Jennifer believes in the power of connection, advocacy, and education to transform lives and build a better world, one meaningful relationship at a time.

Kevin Erickson

Kevin Erickson is a business owner, an adjunct instructor, and an Iowa Law Enforcement Instructor at the Regional Academy at Western Iowa Tech Community College. With over 16 years of combined experience in law enforcement and military service, Kevin now focuses on providing expert consultation, training, and support to businesses and first responder agencies. His mission is to raise awareness about mental health, resiliency, and safety in the workplace, helping organizations create healthier, more supportive environments.

Merhawi Andy

Merhawi Andy is an accounting student at Western Iowa Tech Community College, where he is actively involved in leadership and business initiatives. As the president of the Accounting and Business Club and a member of Comet CLASS-a leadership program dedicated to amplifying student voices-he is committed to personal and professional growth.

Monica Good Dawn

Monica Good Dawn is a storyteller, educator, and cultural ambassador dedicated to preserving and sharing the rich traditions of the HoChunk people. Raised in Sioux City, IA (24 minutes from the Winnebago Reservation), she grew up immersed in the oral histories, ceremonies, and values that have been passed down for generations. As an Indigenous Advocate, she has made it her mission to challenge stereotypes, reclaim narratives, and ensure that Indigenous stories are told by Indigenous voices. Her work has been featured in the Indigified Podcast and Iowa Public Radio.

Naimah Saadiq

Naimah Saadiq is an Instructor for the Iowa Law Enforcement Academy. She received her BA in Interdisciplinary Studies/Criminology from Iowa State University and her Masters of Public Safety Leadership Administration from Arizona State University. Before joining ILEA she was a Senior EEO Consultant/Civil Rights Investigator for the Office of Equity and Inclusion at Arizona State University (ASU). She was also the Police Personnel Recruiter for the ASU Police Department. Prior to relocating to Arizona, she served as a Police Officer for the Ames Police Department, where she was also a member of the Sexual Assault Response Team as well as a crisis/hostage negotiator for the Emergency Response Team.