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).

The Belvedere
1201 main st
25th Floor
Columbia, South Carolina, 29201
United States

Brian Carpenter

Charter School Expert

After dropping out of high school in 1977 and joining the United States Marine Corps, neither he nor those around him could have predicted the turn his life would take. In the nearly five decades, he has become an educator, author, speaker, and charter school consultant. His expertise in charter school oversight, board governance, and financial management has made him a sought-after advisor for schools, authorizers, and education attorneys across the country. For the past 20 years, Dr. Carpenter has leveraged his expertise to empower charter school leaders, board members, and authorizers nationwide. He has authored multiple books. Dr. Carpenter holds a Ph.D. in Education from Capella University, a Master’s degree from Northern Arizona University, and a Graduate Certificate in Forensic Accounting and Fraud Examination from West Virginia University. He is also a Certified Fraud Examiner (CFE), utilizing his skills to strengthen financial and operational integrity within schools.

David Crook

CEO The Heron Institute

David Crook is a dedicated education leader who believes in seeing the possibilities in every student rather than accepting the probabilities. As CEO of The Heron Institute, he is committed to expanding virtual learning opportunities in South Carolina. He leads Cyber Academy of South Carolina and Heron Virtual Academy of South Carolina (HVASC), two statewide virtual charter schools designed to empower students through flexibility and support. Under his leadership, HVASC celebrated its first graduating class in 2024, demonstrating the success of its student-centered learning model, which provides alternative pathways for high-risk students through credit recovery and work-based learning programs. Mr. Crook also oversees The Heron Institute. Passionate about innovation, equity, and student-centered learning, he challenges traditional structures to unlock student potential and ensure every learner has the opportunity to thrive on their own unique path.

Ellen Weaver

State Superintendent of Education

Honorable Ellen Weaver was elected as South Carolina's 19th State Superintendent of Education on November 9th, 2022. Born in Greenville, Ellen has spent her career as a passionate advocate for educational excellence and opportunity for every student in her beloved home state. Superintendent Weaver graduated with a B.A. in Political Science and a Master's in Educational Leadership, from Bob Jones University. After graduation, she worked in Senator Jim DeMint's office for 12 years in a variety of roles, finishing her time as his State Director. She founded Palmetto Promise Institute, a leading state public policy organization, in 2013. Superintendent Weaver is focused on prioritizing the instruction of foundational skills, recruiting and retaining the best educators, and partnering with parents — as well as business and other community leaders — to prepare students for their personal path to success.

Henry Darby

Principal at North Charleston

Mr. Henry Darby, principal at North Charleston High School, is the epitome of selfless dedication to his community. In 2020, after realizing many of the students in his school were struggling financially, with some sleeping under bridges or in their cars, he decided to do something about it. Mr. Darby applied to get a part-time job at Walmart, working from 10 pm to 7 am three days a week, just so he could donate his pay to his students. His actions have led to the community donating almost $100,000 to the school, and Walmart has donated an additional $50,000. Mr. Darby says "I was taught if your hands find something to do, do it. So I came to myself and said, 'Perhaps I need another job in terms of part-time.’” Mr. Darby holds a Bachelor’s and two Master’s Degrees and has served in education for over 40 years, but it is his humility and genuine love for the children he serves that make him an excellent leader. In addition to his other accolades, he is the author of numerous books.

Leon Lott

Sheriff of Richland County

Sheriff Lott is a distinguished law enforcement leader with a career spanning nearly five decades. He earned a Bachelor’s Degree in Sociology from the University of South Carolina and a Master’s Degree from Lander University. He also graduated from the FBI National Academy and Harvard University’s John F. Kennedy School of Government. Sheriff Lott launched his law enforcement career in 1975 with the Richland County Sheriff’s Department. In 1993, he became the Chief of Police in St. Matthews, South Carolina. He was elected Sheriff of Richland County in 1996, a position he still holds. In addition to his role as Sheriff, he serves as the Commander of the South Carolina State Guard, holding the rank of Major General. His leadership has earned him prestigious accolades, including being named 2021 National Sheriff of the Year. For his outstanding contributions to public service, the University of South Carolina awarded Sheriff Lott an Honorary Doctorate in Public Service in December 2021.

Phyllis MacGilvray

Dean of South Carolina School of Medicine Greenville

Dr. Phyllis MacGilvray, MD, FAAFP serves as the Dean of the University of South Carolina School of Medicine Greenville (SOMG). Additionally, she is a clinical professor in the Department of Family Medicine at SOMG and serves as a Prisma Health Family Medicine physician. Dr. MacGilvray is the first medical school dean in the country board certified in lifestyle medicine. As a native South Carolinian from Abbeville, she has maintained a full-scope family medicine practice for 20 years. Dr. MacGilvray is a practicing physician in Greenville, in family medicine with obstetrics. Dean MacGilvray earned her Bachelor of Science Degree in biochemistry from Clemson University and her Doctor of Medicine Degree from the Medical University of South Carolina. She completed residency training in family medicine at the University of Vermont, followed by academic leadership positions at Eastern Virginia Medical School, Naval Medical Center Camp Lejeune and at the University of Texas Health San Antonio

Sarah Little

Professor of Education at Erskine College

Dr. Sarah Little, Professor of Education, graduated from Erskine College in 2006 with certifications in special education and early childhood education. She began her teaching career in special education in Abbeville. After marrying her husband, Daniel (Erskine Class of 2008), she moved to Latta, S.C., where she taught first grade. She and her husband moved to the Upstate in 2013, where Dr. Little served as an instructional coach and testing coordinator in Spartanburg District 4. She completed a Master’s Degree in Education from Southern Wesleyan University, an Education Specialist Degree in Literacy from Converse College, a Master’s Degree in Education from the University of South Carolina, and a Doctorate in Curriculum and Instruction from the University of South Carolina. Before coming to Erskine. Dr. Little taught at North Greenville University, where she served as Early Childhood Department Chair, Assessment Coordinator, and Teacher Cadet College Partner.

Sym Singh

Director of State Government Affairs Scout Motors Inc.

As the Director of Government Affairs for Scout Motors, Mr. Singh leverages his deep understanding of state government and policy to drive the company's strategic initiatives. He is particularly focused on advancing electric vehicle policy and energy policy. Throughout his career, Mr. Singh has consistently excelled in policy development and implementation, translating complex ideas into actionable strategies. Mr. Singh’s commitment to collaboration and problem-solving has fostered strong relationships with legislators, agency officials, and industry leaders. His adaptability and ability to navigate complex political landscapes have made him a valuable asset to both government and the private sector. Mr. Singh has an undergraduate degree from Lander University and a graduate degree from Liberty University. He currently lives in Greenwood, South Carolina with his wife, Nina and their three children.