TEDxMeredith College

Speakers

Speakers may not be confirmed. Check the event website for the latest lineup.

• Amy Glazier

  Assistant Professor of Physics | Astrophysicist | Science Communicator

  Amy Glazier is an award-winning scientist, educator, and advocate for accessible science. She currently serves as an Assistant Professor of Physics at Meredith College. A first-generation college graduate from Texas, Dr. Glazier’s academic journey began with an associate’s degree from Collin County Community College, followed by a bachelor’s degree with honors in physics from Austin College. She went on to earn both her master’s and doctorate in astrophysics at UNC-Chapel Hill. Her research explores planetary habitability and astrobiology—asking profound questions about life beyond Earth. Alongside her scholarship, Dr. Glazier is deeply committed to public outreach and to making science both humane and inspiring, especially for first-generation students and those from historically marginalized communities. Her teaching and mentorship reflect a passion not only for discovery, but also for building pathways that welcome more voices into science.

• Briana Landis

  Scientist, Advocate & Founder of Briana’s Team

  Briana Landis is a passionate advocate, scientist, and Meredith College 19” with a degree in Biology. Diagnosed with Multiple Sclerosis at a young age, Briana has dedicated over two decades to raising awareness of pediatric MS. She is the founder of Briana’s Team, one of the East Coast’s largest Walk MS teams, and has spoken nationally to inspire research, policy change, and patient centered care. Briana has participated in clinical research internships, served as a keynote speaker, and lobbied on Capitol Hill for increased MS funding and support. Her journey reflects a deep commitment to science, advocacy, and ensuring a future free of MS. In her free time she enjoys kayaking, jewelry making, and teaching her cat Daisy new tricks.

• Lisa Marshall

  Nuclear Engineering Educator & Advocate

  Lisa is the Immediate Past President and Executive Board Member of the American Nuclear Society and has spent more than 23 years shaping engineering education across the globe. At NC State University, she serves as Assistant Extension Professor and Director of Outreach, Retention, and Engagement in the Department of Nuclear Engineering. Through her teaching, research, and leadership, Lisa has inspired thousands of students—from first-year engineers to graduate scholars—while championing diversity and inclusion in STEM. Her influence extends far beyond the classroom. Lisa serves on the OECD Nuclear Energy Agency’s Council of Advisers, where she leads global efforts to build a stronger pipeline of STEM professionals. She also directs the NEO Research Group, dedicated to connecting students with nuclear science and technology opportunities.

• Lydia Denton

  Award-Winning Young Inventor & STEM Advocate

  Lydia Denton is an inventor and senior at Wilson Early College Academy. A passionate advocate for youth innovation and women in STEM, Lydia has received national and international recognition for inventions that address real-world problems. She was named one of the 16 Under 16 in STEM by The 74 Million and has earned top honors in global competitions such as the Thomas Edison Pitch Contest and the Paradigm Challenge. In 2024, Lydia was selected as one of 13 U.S. ambassadors for the prestigious TechGirls exchange program through the US Department of State, where she collaborated with 111 girls from 38 countries and conducted research at Virginia Tech. She currently serves as Junior Co-Chair of the National Girls Collaborative Project, where she helps shape policy and promote diversity in STEM through education and outreach. Lydia’s work has been featured by Good Morning America, People Magazine, and Discovery Education, and she is a published author in For Girls Like You Magazine.

• Melyssa Minto

  Computational Biologist Bridging Data, Genetics & Accessibility

  Dr. Melyssa Minto is a scientist who works at the intersection of biology, data, and technology. As a computational biologist, she develops and implements tools that help us understand how our genes influence health and disease, particularly in neurobiology. Her work combines cloud computing, artificial intelligence, and genomic science to speed the path from data to biological insight. Melyssa earned her PhD in Computational Biology and Bioinformatics from Duke University and now contributes to research at RTI International on the genomics of substance use disorders. She is also a community builder, having served as Programming Coordinator for the Black Women in Computational Biology Network, and a volunteer in local community gardens. No matter the setting, Melyssa approaches her work and life with curiosity and a commitment to making science accessible to all.

• Tamara Terry

  Strategic Engagement Leader & DEI Advocate

  Tamara Terry is a seasoned Engagement Executive, Principal Strategist, and research scientist with over two decades of experience transforming strategy in life sciences, higher education, and the nonprofit sector. Her leadership blends evidence-based research, inclusive engagement, and human-centered strategy to drive scalable, sustainable impact. A dedicated DEI advocate, Tamara empowers underrepresented voices, builds mission-driven partnerships, and helps organizations align strategic goals with measurable progress.