Motorsports pioneer Lyn St. James will headline the first-ever TEDxWatkinsGlen event this summer, bringing one of racing’s most accomplished trailblazers back to the community where she made history on the track.
The Watkins Glen Area Chamber of Commerce announced that St. James will serve as the featured speaker when TEDxWatkinsGlen debuts on Wednesday, August 19, at The Glen Club at Watkins Glen International.
A legendary race car driver, entrepreneur, author and advocate, St. James is widely recognized for breaking barriers in motorsports. Throughout her career, she challenged long-standing norms in a male-dominated sport while becoming one of auto racing’s most respected figures.
Organizers say her longstanding connection to Watkins Glen International makes her an ideal choice to headline the inaugural event.
“Lyn St. James has spent her career redefining what is possible, making her the ideal speaker to launch TEDxWatkinsGlen,” said Watkins Glen Area Chamber of Commerce Executive Director Nigar Hale. “Her story of perseverance, innovation, and leadership reflects the spirit of this event and the kind of ideas that inspire people to think differently.”
Watkins Glen International President Dawn Burlew said St. James has been a valued friend of the track for many years.
“As a pioneering racer, accomplished entrepreneur, and passionate advocate for the next generation of leaders, Lyn embodies the curiosity, resilience, and innovative thinking that TEDx celebrates,” Burlew said. “Her remarkable journey reminds us that breakthroughs—whether on the racetrack or in life—begin with the courage to challenge what’s possible.”
TEDxWatkinsGlen marks the first time the internationally recognized TEDx program has come to the Watkins Glen community. The event will bring together innovators, entrepreneurs, creators and community leaders to share ideas designed to inspire conversation and action.
“We have always believed in the power of bringing people together around ideas, experiences, and opportunities that strengthen our community,” Hale said. “TEDxWatkinsGlen represents a new chapter for our region—one that celebrates innovation, storytelling, and the remarkable individuals who inspire us to see what is possible.”
Schuyler County officials say hosting TEDxWatkinsGlen highlights the region’s growing reputation as a place where innovation and big ideas can thrive.
Additional speakers will be announced in the coming weeks. Tickets for the August 19 event are now on sale, with attendance limited to preserve the intimate TEDx experience.
