University of Northern Iowa
02/17/2026 | Press release | Distributed by Public on 02/17/2026 15:14
TEDxUniversity of Northern Iowa talks by Eshbaugh, Lillquist selected as TED “Editor’s Picks”
CEDAR FALLS, Iowa- Two TEDxUniversity of Northern Iowa talks have been selected as TED "Editor's Picks," a distinction awarded to only about 0.5% of TEDx talks worldwide. The talk by UNI professor Elaine Eshbaugh will be published on Thursday, Feb. 19, and Lillquist's talk will be published at a later date.
Eshbaugh's talk, "The Hidden Connection Between Dementia and Anxiety," focuses on improving understanding and empathy for people living with dementia. Eshbaugh, a 2000 UNI graduate, is now a professor of gerontology and runs the Dementia Simulation House at the university, a home where individuals use goggles, headphones and gloves to experience what it's like to live with dementia.
"I'm honored and excited that my talk might start more discussions about how people with dementia can live meaningful lives," Eshbaugh said. "My hope is that people will think of dementia in a different way. People have told me that what I said helped them make sense of what is happening to their loved one with dementia. Learning and executing small changes can empower people who love someone with dementia."
Zach Lillquist's talk, "The Power of the Uber Conversation: Why Small Talk Matters More Than You Think," highlights the universal human need for connection and the overlooked value of everyday interactions. Lillquist, a 2017 UNI graduate, said he hopes viewers recognize that connection is a shared human experience.
"We may look and sound different, but we are still humans who crave connection," he said. "'Small talking' well can turn into life-long relationships and opportunities. Anyone can benefit from that, no matter who they are."
Over 1,000 people attended the TEDxUniversity of Northern Iowa event on October 25, 2026. Eshbaugh and Lillquist were among 16 speakers who gave talks that day about education, business, technology, social change, innovation and more.
Information about the 2025 speakers and published talks are available at tedxuni.com.
#UNI150
Watch Party for Eshbaugh's Talk
The university community is invited to gather for a watch party on Friday, Feb. 20, from 12:30-1 p.m. in Sabin 02. Media are invited to attend.
About TEDxUniversity of Northern Iowa
TEDxUniversity of Northern Iowa is an independently organized TEDx event dedicated to elevating bold ideas, amplifying diverse voices and inspiring meaningful conversations across campus and throughout the state.
University of Northern Iowa published this content on February 17, 2026, and is solely responsible for the information contained herein. Distributed via Public Technologies (PUBT), unedited and unaltered, on February 17, 2026 at 21:14 UTC. If you believe the information included in the content is inaccurate or outdated and requires editing or removal, please contact us at [email protected]