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Pomp and Circumstances:The Future of Ceremonies

Lynne WesterYesiva University

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What We Will Cover

• The importance of ceremonies• The Here and Now• The Future• What works… and what doesn’t• The Experience

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Why are Ceremonies Important?

• They represent your institution to the greater community

• They show cross campus teamwork• Ceremonies are used to highlight or

recognize special accomplishments and goal attainment.

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Here and Now

• Needs are Changing• Budgets are Changing• The “WOW” Factor• The need for FUN!• Who’s Watching- live streaming, You

Tube• Who’s attending?

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What Works

• Design an event that encourages guests to feel that they are an essential part of the University’s grand vision, by balancing the old with the new, and the intimate with the global.

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It’s more than commencement

• Installation• Convocation• Colloquy• Building Dedication• Endowed Chair Ceremonies• Groundbreakings• Philanthropic Award Ceremonies

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The Attendee Experience

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The Staff Experience

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Cross Campus Committees

• Necessary Evil• Defined Roles• The “buck stops” Where?

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Thank You!!

• Questions??• Comments??• THANK YOU!• Lynne M. Wester• Wester@yu.edu• www.donorrelationsguru.com• Twitter- @donorguru