Event Planning

Plan and execute a successful program as a student or student organization.

A photograph of four students having a conversation in front of the brick arch on the third floor of Blanchard Hall.

Designing Your Event

Student Involvement is here to help students create and plan campus events for the Mount Holyoke Community. When it comes to designing a successful event, there are several things you should keep in mind:

Goals and Vision

What are the goals of the event? What are the steps you need to take in order to get there? How can you make this event inclusive to the entire Mount Holyoke Community? How does this event align with your organization's mission?

Budget and Funding

Create a budget for your events and ensure that there is enough money in your organization's account to pay for the things you would like at your event BEFORE advertising or booking.  If you need advising on creating a budget, consult with SGA Ways and Means or the SGA Business Office Coordinator. For information funding requests, including important deadlines, visit the RSO Handbook.

Event Components

Will you be serving food, contracting a speaker or does your event need security? Make sure to allow enough time if contracts are needed or if vendors require payment. For more information, read our Contracting Procedure.

Technology Support

For registered student events in Chapin Auditorium and the Great Room, and for outdoor events most technical/Stage Crew (Sound & Lighting) support is offered at no charge through the Office of Student Involvement. This service includes most sound & lighting equipment and trained student Stage Crew for your event, as well as assistance with additional production needs.

While in the early stages of planning your event, consult with the Student Involvement Production and Technical Director about your stage needs.

Need additional guidance?

If you are new to event planning or working on a new initiative, we strongly encourage you to meet with us for assistance early in the planning process. Email the office to set up an appointment or stop by the office (Blanchard 327).

Additional Resources

Deadlines & Registration

Funding, reserving space, and filling out the Event Registration Form (ERF).

Contracts & Waivers

Information about contracting a performer, vendor, or speaker.

Marketing and Publicity

Publicity plans, guidelines, and policies.

Film Leasing

Information about the “screening” (showing) of copyrighted videos, DVDs, and even streaming web sites.

Venues Managed by Student Involvement

Blanchard Hall, the Great Room, and Chapin Auditorium.

Tips for Safe Off Campus Activism

We've compiled some tips and a checklist. Also be aware of the campus Protesting Policy.