Award Event Preparation and Planning

2024 Event Planning Guide

Event Planning Tips

What kind of event will you have? In-person, Virtual or Hybrid?
Plan event logistics: speaker talking points, script
If virtual or having a hybrid component, know your COVID restrictions!
Check your audio/visual tech in any scenario!
Timing. Be effective with the timing of your event…not too long, not too short. Keep it under 2 hours.
Plan for some extras and surprises… play some music or do a pre-program game!
Know your foundational skill set and ask your RAMS for help!
Practice and rehearse the timing of your event.
SEND INVITATIONS!

Ideas for ALL types of events!

Show awardee recorded videos or pre-recorded messages from sponsors.
Show the AiC congratulations video. COMING SOON
Have a keynote speaker and/or moderated panel! Engage your AiC alumnae and/or collegiate finalist/winner.
Plan a special pre-determined activity that is CS or STEM related.
Have a plan for honoring each recipient. Who will announce each name? Who will present the trophy? Will you have a rolling list scrolling across the screen while music plays? Ask to speak or someone else share bio? Is there another unique way to honor and award them all? Will you create and show a slide deck of your awardees? What will it include? Pictures/bios?

Virtual/Hybrid

Use polls to interact with participants
Use breakout rooms for a STEM activity. Assign an activity facilitator!
Make certain your speakers are familiar with your video conferencing platform. Will they be using a slide deck? Check this ability prior to your event.
Arrange to have trophies delivered to awardees prior to the event.

Sample Program Format for ANY type of event!

Welcome

Present the agenda & make introductions. Explain what NCWIT is and the significance of the Aspirations in Computing award!

Presentation

The main event! Variations can include a keynote, panel, Q&A session. Play the AiC congratulations video! Present your awards!

Closing

Offer gratitude to attendees. Post the survey link. Congratulate your awardees one last time!

Zoom Backgrounds

Aspirations in Computing Logo Downloads

Event Promotions and Tools

Congratulatory Team Video- download and play locally for best quality

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AiC Award Notifications:

Publicity Kit

Included in the publicity kit:

Talking points about the NCWIT Award for Aspirations in Computing program. Use this to better understand and talk about the award.
Publicity Ideas. Use this section to spark ideas for highlighting the award recipient in multiple outlets.
Press Release Template. Use this template to announce your award recipients and describe how the award has impacted them and their school.