TEDxWilmette 2026
Speaker Announcement
On September 26, 2026, TEDxWilmette will bring together six brilliant minds to share their groundbreaking ideas centered around the theme Especially Now.
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Discover more about these remarkable women by visiting our Speakers Page.
Allison McEntee
Founder, Kenilworth Cookbook Club
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Mary McLaughlin
Co-Founder, Trees That Feed Foundation
Arit Nsemo
Founder and Head Coach, woo-woo for winners; Bookseller
Michelle Buck
Professor, Kellogg School of Management at Northwestern University
Karen Smith Wells
COO, Make-A-Wish America​
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Dr. Pat E. Perkins
Certified Leadership Strategist and AI Consultant
Join us at this final TEDxWilmette Salon, where Annie will guide us through stories, photos, and unexpected life lessons from her polar expeditions. She will encourage people to find their inner explorer. This TEDxWilmette Salon will feature photos and stories from real expeditions, and Annie welcomes questions about her treks.
Expect an intimate, welcoming atmosphere.
Share your thoughts if you’d like, or simply take it all in. There’s no pressure, just meaningful conversation and connection.
Stories, Adventure, and Life Lessons from a Polar Explorer
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Featuring Annie Aggens
Moderated by Heather Hehman (TEDxWilmette Co-Founder)
Tuesday, June 16, 2026
7:00 - 8:30 p.m.
Optima Verdana Penthouse
1210 Central Ave., Wilmette, IL 60091
Inspired minds await — watch the newest TEDxWilmette talk or explore the full collection.
Want to learn more about how TEDxWilmette partners with our community?
Watch our latest partner video featuring one of our generous sponsors.