When COVID-19 struck and cancelations were rampant, the Utah Valley University division of Institutional Advancement recognized that the annual President’s Scholarship Ball, one of the most important fundraising events of the year, would not be possible in its traditional black-tie gala format. But because the event is the primary fundraiser for UVU’s Presidential Scholarship Fund, it had to go on–outside with social distancing protocols in place.
Although this was ambitious, everyone involved understood the necessity of the evening. The teams involved took stock of what they did have: a large parking lot, a projector, and a community of people who love a 1950’s theme. This was the perfect combination to host an old-fashioned drive-in movie night. With that, the 2020 President’s Drive-In Scholarship Ball was born.
From the Judges
A truly outstanding event in terms of originality, theming, engagement with various stakeholder groups, safety, adaptability, and outcomes. We were impressed by the thoughtful way stickers were used to inform people they were happy to chat. It was a great way to involve the whole institution, and an impressive target reach for scholarships despite coming in under budget.
