Students in the Truckee Meadows are invited to submit their "big idea" for the opportunity to speak at TEDxUniversityofNevada Jan. 23, 2015. The Nevada Student Speaker Competition has opened its call for speakers to middle school, high school, college or University of Nevada, Reno students interested in making their thoughts known on a global stage.

 Applicants chosen to present will be invited to compete for a TEDx speaker slot by giving their talk on stage in the Joe Crowley Student Union at the University. At the event, they will compete for a coveted spot on the TEDxUniversityofNevada roster. The student competition will take place at 6 p.m., Wednesday, Oct. 1, 2014, and is free and open to the public.  

TED and TEDx talks are the most recognized speaking conventions in the world. The winner of NVSSC will enjoy the opportunity to speak at TEDxUniversityofNevada with potential worldwide recognition through the TEDx network.  

In 2013, at the age of 13, Logan LaPlante spoke at TEDxUniversityofNevada. Since then, his TEDx video on Hackschooling has nearly 6 million views and counting.  

"We are looking for diverse and dynamic presenters who represent entertainment, technology, design, education, entrepreneurship, volunteerism - every facet of a thriving community," Bret Simmons, TEDxUniversityofNevada license holder and University College of Business associate professor, said. "The global TEDx community wants to access passionate, local voices that few have heard before. If you or someone you know has a 'big idea worth spreading,' please urge them to apply."  

Application must be submitted by midnight, Friday, Sept. 12, 2014. The application can be found on the NVSSC website in addition to other information about NVSSC, including video links to last year's student competitor videos. Regular updates will be provided on the NevadaSSC Facebook page and via Twitter @NVSSCUNR. For questions, please contact unrspeaker@gmail.com.