Commencement had been evolving at UAlbany for several years as we saw shifts in graduate and audience behavior, institutional priorities, and event trends. Then COVID-19 hit, and UAlbany’s Office of University Events was tasked with creating a safe and meaningful in-person event amid a global pandemic. Commencement was reimagined, and the result was a unique and intimate experience focused on grads and their families that combined innovative ideas with traditional pomp and circumstance. The success of that experience has forever changed the landscape of UAlbany’s Commencement activities, and 2022 saw the debut of our school and college-based Stage Crossing Celebrations in the place of ceremonies, an improved version of our University-wide undergraduate degree conferral ceremony, and an institutional culture shift.

In this session, we will share our story and offer scalable takeaways and actionable ideas applicable to not only academic ceremonies but all types of university events. We will address event logistics and communications, faculty/staff participation and management, academic protocol, health and safety, customer service, graduate/family and faculty/staff feedback and ideas, financial management, data/metrics/ROI, leadership/change management, and more. We hope to inspire you and your institution to reimagine your Commencement!

Advanced Track