From vendors and colleagues to boards and volunteers, special event planners have a highly collaborative role. Join the faculty for an introductory panel and discussion on partnerships – the good, the bad, and the peculiar. All Tracks

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

There are companies all over the globe that are renowned for their customer service, but none more so than the Disney Corporation. “Being Disney” takes careful planning, attention to detail, and most importantly the desire to make each person feel like you planned the event just for them. This session will explore key steps for creating magical moments. Foundational Track

Let's look into the art of enhancing events through what the Davidson events team affectionately calls "Tiny Noticeable Touches," or "TNT." These subtle adjustments to details have the power to sweeten the guest experience, leaving a lasting impact. We'll explore creative ideas and examples that demonstrate how small gestures can make a big difference. From intentional menu design to unexpected accessibility accommodations, we'll showcase how these thoughtful touches can elevate any event, regardless of size or budget. Attendees will leave inspired with practical strategies for infusing their events with warmth, care, and a little TNT. Foundational Track

This on-the-move session is designed to drive deeper engagement with conference material and themes. Part brainstorming and part informational, this activity will involve participants in collaboratively exploring challenges and ideas related to the conference themes. Faculty will then select from crowd-generated challenges and discuss possible solutions, tools, and tips to take your work to the next level. All Tracks