TEDxCSUSM
An empty TEDx stage with a red circular carpet under red and amber spotlights

Something big is coming to San Marcos

Join us for TEDxCSUSM 2027

Solving the World's Biggest Problems

  • Monday, March 29, 2027
  • 4:00 PM – 9:00 PM
  • USU Ballroom 2300C, Cal State San Marcos
Get TicketsEvent Details

The 2027 Theme

Solving the World's Biggest Problems

Climate, health, access to education, food and water security, technology that serves people — the challenges in front of us are enormous. TEDxCSUSM gathers students, faculty, alumni, and North County neighbors who refuse to treat them as unsolvable.

For one evening at Cal State San Marcos, speakers from our campus and community share bold ideas, hard-won lessons, and practical paths forward. Come for the talks, stay for the conversations, and leave with something you can act on.

An audience gathered in a warmly lit ballroom facing the stage

03.29.27

USU Ballroom 2300C

On the 2027 stage

Confirmed Speakers

Meet the voices joining us at TEDxCSUSM. More speakers will be announced in the months ahead.

Headshot of Aly Vredenburgh

Aly Vredenburgh

Sociologist & Founder, WeBelong Institute

Aly Vredenburgh is a sociologist, mental health advocate, and founder of WeBelong Institute, a nonprofit focused on belonging, social connection, and community well-being. She holds a master’s degree in Social Innovation from the University of San Diego. Her work examines how social and economic conditions shape mental health—and how institutions can better support the people they serve.

She leads California Can’t Wait, a campaign advocating for access to independently licensed therapists in every California public school. Through advocacy, public speaking, investigative research, and documentary storytelling, Aly brings attention to gaps in mental health care and builds support for practical solutions. Her work centers on creating healthier, more connected schools, organizations, and communities.

Headshot of Jeff Mata

Jeff Mata

Motivational Speaker & World Champion Jiu Jitsu Athlete

Jeff Mata is a San Diego-born and raised motivational speaker, athlete, business professional, and advocate for an equal educational environment for students with disabilities. Faced with a complete loss of sight 10 years ago, he has accomplished more than one could imagine. Jeff graduated from California State University San Marcos with a Bachelor’s of Science degree in Business Management. While working on his undergraduate, he mentored other students on campus through a life and leadership program known as the Tukwut Leadership Circle. His ability to guide and motivate others became a valuable asset to his career in motivational speaking.

Not only does he empower one through speaking, but Jeff is an established athlete in the Sport Jiu Jitsu International Federation. He is a three-time World Gold Medalist and continues to compete against athletes who are able-bodied. His journey in a fast-paced world with lack of perception has inspired a countless number of individuals and he is just getting started.

Know someone who belongs on our stage?

Nominate a Speaker

Want to help bring TEDxCSUSM to life?

Become a Volunteer

Interested in sponsoring the event?

Partner With Us

About the program

What is TEDx?

TEDx brings the spirit of TED to communities around the world. Local teams host their own events, pairing live speakers with recorded TED Talks to get people thinking, talking, and connecting with one another.

TEDxCSUSM is organized independently by members of the Cal State San Marcos community under a free license from TED. TED offers guidance on the format, and our local team handles everything else, from choosing speakers to running the night itself.

Seats are limited.

Monday, March 29, 2027 · 4:00 PM – 9:00 PM · USU Ballroom 2300C, Cal State San Marcos

Reserve Your Seat

Stay in the loop.

Drop your email to hear first about speaker announcements, ticket releases, and event-day details.