Alexandra Martin
Archaeologist | Scholar | Editor
Introducing Alexandra Martin, who will speak at the next TEDxAmoskeagMillyard event on October 10, 2024, at the Palace Theatre in Manchester, NH.
What's your favorite TED or TEDx Talk, and why?
I love Chimamanda Ngozi Adichie’s “The danger of a single story,” but since I feel like that’s everyone’s favorite TED Talk (with good reason!), I’ll use this opportunity to appreciate another archaeologist’s TED Talk: Sarah Parcak’s “Help discover ancient ruins -- before it's too late.” Dr. Parcak won the 2016 TED prize for this talk and it’s easy to see why. She brings such an enthusiasm for her work in archaeology to the TED stage, and makes her high tech research very accessible – in fact she invites viewers to join her research by reviewing satellite images on their own computers!
What people or events have inspired you professionally?
I’ve always wanted to do archaeology that matters to people, so I’m inspired by the collaborators who have joined and supported my various research projects. My students at UNH also keep me inspired with their interest in history, ability to find meaningful connections between the past and their own lives, and their willingness to show up to my 8am classes every week. :)
If you could change one thing about the world, what would it be?
I wish everyone would approach the world with more curiosity. I think being curious makes us more empathetic, more excited to learn, and more receptive to different perspectives on the world.
How did you feel when you learned you had been chosen as a speaker for TEDxAM24?
Surprised and delighted!
What do you most want TEDxAM24 attendees to know about you?
I’m from right nearby in Merrimack NH, and grew up coming to shows at the Palace Theatre, so it will be so exciting to be up on the stage!
