In this heartfelt and inspiring talk, Christopher shares the story of a buzzer-beater basketball game that didn’t just end in a win—it revealed a deeper victory. What started as a proud coaching moment turned into a life-changing lesson in emotional intelligence when Christopher witnessed his young son extend a hand to help an opponent in defeat. Through personal stories and powerful insights, Christopher explores the two pillars of emotional intelligence—self-awareness and empathy—and how they shape who we are, how we lead, and how we lift others. He offers a framework for developing our inner game so we can serve our communities with confidence, clarity, and compassion. This talk is a reminder that our greatest influence isn’t in what we achieve—it’s in how we show up for others. Especially in moments that matter. Christopher D. Connors is a keynote speaker, executive coach and bestselling author of three books on leadership and personal development: The Champion Leader, Emotional Intelligence for the Modern Leader and The Value of You. He is the creator of the LinkedIn Learning course, Leading with Emotional Intelligence, one of the top leadership courses on the site. Christopher helps leaders, managers, professionals and students increase their emotional intelligence, prioritize results and build thriving organizations. He works with Fortune 500 companies such as Northrop Grumman, McKesson and Apple, and he’s worked with schools such as: St. Paul's School, Porter-Gaud, Bullis, Cannon School and Hargrave Military Academy. His writing has appeared in World Economic Forum, CNBC, Thrive Global and many educational publications. Visit him at: chrisdconnors.com. This talk was given at a TEDx event using the TED conference format but independently organized by a local community. Learn more at https://www.ted.com/tedx

Is social media shaping us more than we realize? In this thought-provoking talk, Cameron Alvaro explores the psychological impact of social media and the subtle "mind games" it plays on our behavior and self-image. Blending her passion for psychology with real-world insight, she sheds light on how digital platforms influence the way we think and feel. Her talk encourages us to become more mindful users in a constantly connected world. Cameron Alvaro is a junior currently attending her third year at Saddle River Day School. She enjoys theater, debate, volleyball, and traveling! This is her second TEDx talk and she is ecstatic to be working alongside her faculty mentor Mr. Colin Riley. Her talk is focused on the psychological impact of social media and the importance of understanding its "mind games," which highlights her deep passion for psychology and human behavior. This talk was given at a TEDx event using the TED conference format but independently organized by a local community. Learn more at https://www.ted.com/tedx

What does it really mean to live with dyslexia? In this eye-opening talk, Celine Sawyer shares her journey navigating dyslexia and the challenges that come with it. She challenges common misconceptions and calls for greater understanding and compassion. Her talk aims to raise awareness and reduce judgment around learning differences. Celine Sawyer is a new freshman at SRDS this year. She enjoys playing tennis, horseback riding, skiing, and spending time with friends. Celine was diagnosed with dyslexia when she was in 2nd grade and soon after attended Windward, a school focused on teaching kids with language based disorders, for six years. She is excited to give her first TEDx talk, aiming to raise awareness about dyslexia, challenge misconceptions, and reduce judgment, with guidance from her mentor, Roman Paolucci. This talk was given at a TEDx event using the TED conference format but independently organized by a local community. Learn more at https://www.ted.com/tedx

What can dogs teach us about living a fulfilled life? In this heartfelt talk, Faith explores the lessons we can learn from our canine companions about joy, loyalty, and presence. Drawing from her own experiences and love for her dog, she reflects on simple ways to find happiness in everyday moments. Her talk invites us to reconnect with the qualities that bring meaning and fulfillment to our lives. Faith is a senior in her fourth year at Saddle River Day. After giving her first TEDx talk about ethics and genetic editing technology, she is excited to give her second talk on the lessons we can learn from dogs about how to live more fulfilled lives. Outside of school, Faith enjoys playing basketball, reading, spending time with her friends and family, and of course, playing with her dog. She is so grateful to be working with her amazing faculty mentor, Ms. Kim. This talk was given at a TEDx event using the TED conference format but independently organized by a local community. Learn more at https://www.ted.com/tedx

What shapes us during life’s toughest moments? Jeslyn Savage dives into the power of unity, resilience, and the support systems that guide us through challenges. Drawing from her journey in criminal law and her time at SRDS, she highlights how strong connections and perseverance can transform adversity into growth. Her talk encourages us to embrace community and collective strength as vital sources of hope and empowerment. Jeslyn Savage is a junior at Rutgers University, where she is majoring in History with a minor in American Studies, pursuing a future career in criminal law. Before Rutgers, Jeslyn attended SRDS for five years, where she delivered two TEDx Talks, one on what it means to truly be empathetic and another on why you should always follow your dreams. Beyond academics, Jeslyn has actively sought opportunities to gain legal experience, including internships and shadowing experiences in the field of criminal justice. Now taking the TED stage once again, Jeslyn will discuss the power of unity, resilience, and the support systems that shape us. This talk was given at a TEDx event using the TED conference format but independently organized by a local community. Learn more at https://www.ted.com/tedx

How much of who we are is shaped by where we come from? In her talk Bridging Generations, Josephine explores the powerful role family history plays in shaping identity and perspective. Through personal stories and reflection, she highlights the importance of connecting with the past to better understand ourselves. Her message reminds us that the threads of heritage can inspire purpose, belonging, and growth. Josephine is a junior thrilled to be giving her fourth TEDx Talk at SRDS. She has a passion for chemistry, art, sustainability and public speaking. In her talk “Bridging Generations” she will share her experience learning about her own family history and how it has shaped her identity. She would like to thank her faculty mentors, Ms. Baro and Ms. Hollis, for their mentorship and thoughtful guidance. This talk was given at a TEDx event using the TED conference format but independently organized by a local community. Learn more at https://www.ted.com/tedx