The student-run organization TEDxPurdueU will host its annual event on Saturday, March 7, 2026, which brings a lineup of innovative speakers to campus. The theme for this year is “Odyssey”: “From the frontiers of science and technology, where odyssey relates to design and innovation, to the world of human expression, where creativity and culture become the compass and storytelling charts the course, everyone's 'Odyssey' is different.”
The event, taking place from 12 p.m. to 2:30 p.m. in Loeb Playhouse, is open to Purdue and Ivy Tech students (plus attendees under 19) at a discount, as well as to the general public. Tickets are on sale now.
Organizers describe this year's Odyssey theme as a call for heroes to undertake their own journeys of excitement, struggle, and transformation. The talks and the speakers themselves promise to be varied and innovative.
Maguire Mosby, a Purdue Polytechnic student and member of the organizing committee, said that TEDxPurdueU synchronizes with Purdue Polytechnic's focus on solving real-world problems through diverse approaches.
"This event is particularly beneficial to students in the Polytechnic because many of our keynote speakers practice and encourage interdisciplinary thinking," Mosby said. "It is an opportunity to hear from innovative and forward-thinking individuals who are making significant contributions in their respective disciplines."
The full speaker lineup will be announced in the coming weeks; organizers have confirmed that the roster includes a mix of external experts from technical and non-technical backgrounds, as well as a current Purdue student to provide a unique perspective for Boilermakers.
The event also aims to provide a platform for networking and idea exchange, offering attendees the chance to connect with professionals and peers from various fields.
"The goal of these events is to inspire students at Purdue and the greater community," Mosby added.
Tickets for TEDxPurdueU are currently on sale through Purdue Hall of Music Productions, and the event is run in cooperation with Purdue's Convocations Volunteer Network.
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