This project was in collaboration with Brenna McCormick, Adelaide “Addy” Russell, Emma Brady and Cam McLean.
What is the BCE Showcase?
The BCE Showcase is an end-of-year celebration for the program structured around three thematic components and events—each represented by a distinct shape that symbolizes a different aspect of networking and community building. The triangle symbolizes business networks and the Arts & Entrepreneur Festival segment, where students showcase their creative ventures. The square represents the local community and the Block Party segment, where seniors, faculty, industry professionals, alumni, friends, and family are invited to mingle. Lastly, the circle embodies a sense of inclusivity and collective growth along with the Showcase segment of the event, where seniors presented their year-long capstone projects.
The Challenge:
Make the BCE Showcase an event worth attending and remembering.
Ugly Baby Identified:
Previously, the BCE Showcase experienced a networking hour that didn’t facilitate the meaningful interactions desired amongst the organizers and attendees. Recognizing the importance of community and collaboration, our primary challenge was transforming this event into a dynamic networking opportunity that encouraged genuine connections and discussions among creative minds, scholars, industry leaders, and the broader Emerson community.
Game Plan:
To overhaul the networking experience and integrate strategic interactions and reflective prompts that foster an environment of meaningful dialogue and connection. This would be facilitated through thematic nudges, visually engaging displays, and interactive elements that spark conversation and reflection.
Strategic Approach:
- Thematic Integration: Introduced the theme “Collective x Intelligence,” prompting attendees to reflect on and discuss the inspirational figures within their networks and the impact of these connections on their professional lives and personal growth. For the Block Party segment, we had name tags and questions attendees could write around the themes of mentorship, creativity, habits, pop culture and inspiration.
- Environment Design: Utilized the main banner at the entrance to outline the evening’s events and set the tone for the evening. Nudge posters were placed strategically throughout the venue to continually reinforce the theme and encourage attendees to engage with it.
- Interactive Elements: Designed goody bags with items like Lindor chocolates and lip balm, including a flyer that encouraged participants to reflect on their experiences and share insights on LinkedIn, tagging new connections.
- Visual Storytelling: For the block party segment, we developed a slideshow of year-round program highlights and placed giant foam core boards spotlighting students, thereby giving external guests visual cues to initiate conversations about the program’s activities and the featured students.
Victory Dance:
Note: Despite the extensive planning and community enthusiasm for the BCE Showcase, the event was ultimately canceled due to unforeseen circumstances beyond our control.
- Anticipated Engagement: Despite the event’s cancellation, the preparations and promotional activities led to record-breaking RSVPs. The excitement and buzz generated in the lead-up showcased the community’s strong interest and engagement with the theme and planned activities. Student Spotlight Enthusiasm: Students selected for spotlights expressed significant excitement and gratitude for the recognition. This enthusiasm boosted their personal engagement and motivated their peers, enhancing the overall community spirit and anticipation for the event. Lasting Impact on Future Events: The innovative strategies developed for the BCE Showcase—though not realized in practice—have established a comprehensive blueprint for future events. The work has set a new standard for event planning within the program and ensured that future events can build on the solid groundwork laid by the planned activities.
Skills Used:
- Event Planning and Management
- Experience Design
- Graphic Design
- Creative Collaboration
- Strategic Communication
- Community Engagement
