Eventprotocolbook001 Compressed
Eventprotocolbook001 Compressed
STANDARD OPERATING
PROCEDURES EVENT MANAGEMENT
CONTENTS
PAGE
Event Management Standard Operating Procedure 7
Virtual Events 46
TRAINING WORKBOOK 1
2 FLORIDA INTERNATIONAL UNIVERSITY
FIU EVENTS WORKSHOP
• Review basic event practices that are common across all units at FIU.
• Offer some tips and tricks that we hope will help you manage your events more
effectively and efficiently.
• Discuss protocol and procedures when the President will be at an event.
• Plan and host special events and socials. Examples of events at FIU include galas,
recognition events, lectures, conferences, town halls, ceremonies, and receptions.
• Plan and orchestrate meetings, conferences, ceremonial events, and functions.
• Represent organization at events.
• Utilize the organizational order of precedence for proper seating, introductions,
drafting of speeches and testimonials.
• Travel locally and abroad with client or executives, when necessary.
• Greet and escort visitors.
• Research and manage overall selection of gifts.
Quality Matters
• Safety: Our first duty is to keep our guests’ safety in mind. This is inclusive, but
not limited to: taping down loose wires to the floor, having police presence if
needed, knowing the appropriate seating capacity, knowing who to call in case
of an emergency, if serving food, knowing food allergies, etc.
• Cleanliness: Not only are the event space and outside surrounding areas clear of
dirt/mess, but details are also considered (e.g., garbage cans are not over-flowing,
glass walls/windows are smudge-free, etc.)
Take time to work on the details.
GUIDELINE 3
• Details: Check spelling. Practice speeches. Make checklists. Brief your event staff.
Details will go a long way!
Ensure you are meeting your goals.
• Goals: Each event is unique and may have specific goals in mind (i.e. fundraising,
appreciation, etc.) Keep this in mind and meld them into your logistics planning
(e.g., speeches, images, tag lines, etc.) to ensure an effective event.
Service Excellence
• Remember to treat every guest like they are important, regardless of their status.
• It does not matter if you are dealing with students, visitors, alumni, elected
officials or donors. Everyone that walks into your room should be treated fairly,
respectfully, and politely.
• Create memorable experiences.
• National protocol expert Diane Brown, says: “Don’t just set a room, set an
experience.” From the moment a guest enters an event/meeting, to the
moment they leave, their experience should not only have special touches
(i.e., warm welcome, gifts, photos, etc.) but should also be consistent
(i.e., their entire time in the room should be positive and enjoyable).
• Regarding big personalities: “It is important for all event staff to know that we
are there to serve them, not to be a servant.”— Diane Brown, Protocol Expert
• Any staff who may have direct interaction with your guests (greeters, VIP
escorts, tour guides, drivers, etc.) should be polite, dressed professionally,
cheerful, and knowledgeable about your department/institution.
• Though we should always strive for excellent service, especially to VIPs, it is
important to remember that you should never be belittled as a person. Sometimes,
in a simple miscommunication, an apology takes you a long way. However, it is
perfectly acceptable to hand off your more challenging guests to another staff
member if you feel you cannot handle that specific situation.
The following are your presence power points. They do not show up on standard tests
measuring intelligence or technical expertise, but they identify you to everyone you meet:
“There is only one rule for being a good communicator: Learn to Listen.”
— Christopher Morley
Eye Contact
Direct eye contact should be made in the range of 40 to 60 percent of the time. Less
than that and a person is seen as shy, shifty, hiding something, or lacking self-confidence
and authority.
If the eye contact is more than 60 percent, a person will feel put on the spot, examined, or under
a microscope, so to speak.
If you sometimes get feedback that you are coming across as critical or in a negative manner,
and you don’t mean to do that, check your eye contact. You may be looking more than 60
percent and people see this as being pinned down. When you are talking, watch your listener’s
eyes to see if you are holding his or her attention. It does not matter what you say if the person
you are speaking to is not listening.
GUIDELINE 5
EVENT TERMS
Definitions
Invites
• Please see page 60-61 for invite considerations when the President will be
attending/is hosting the event
GUIDELINE 7
Event Timing
GUIDELINE 9
• Do not use ordinal indicators when using the year (i.e. July 1st, 2021 should
be written as July 1, 2021) — if not using the year, ordinal indicators are
appropriate to use
• Time Line: When will the event be held
• Spell out the time (informal - 6:00 PM / formal – six o’clock)
• For structured programs, we suggest including end times (6:00 – 8:00 PM)
• Location: Where will the event be held
• Placement on the invitation is up to the department
• However, it should be in Micro-Macro order, or vice versa (ex. Room, Building,
Campus, University … OR … University, Campus, Building, Room)
• Special Instructions: Any important notes your guests should be made aware of
• Ex. Attire, Transferability of invitation, Driving/Parking information, etc.
• Reply Information: How should your guests confirm/decline their attendance
• Recommendation is to list a direct contact (staff member’s name) with email
and phone number
• Other: Any special information you would like guests to know
• Ex. Institutional boilerplate, Honoree bio blurb, etc.
It is important that all units/persons named on an invitation approve the mock-up PRIOR to it
being disseminated. Examples:
• If the Dean of the College of Arts, Sciences and Education is hosting the event,
he or his designee should approve.
• If a speaker is coming for a lecture, they or their PR team should approve.
Invite List
• Determine target audience (FIU leadership, FIU Boards, faculty, students, and
community)
RSVP List
• Can be managed using Qualtrics, Google Docs, or other appropriate online method
• Using an e-mail address should be the last option as it is more difficult to manage
or reflect most current responses
Precedence
There is an official precedence for all events, but it is important to know that each guest also
may have “relative precedence” at a given event.
• This is important to know for proper seating arrangements, but more so for
remark recognitions.
• One’s position in an order of precedence is not necessarily an indication of functional
importance, but rather an indication of ceremonial or historical relevance. In other
words, official precedence means the standard order of rank of the group in
question. Relative precedence, on the other hand, is conferring a higher precedence
to a person than their current position dictates — or their order of importance related
to the specific meeting/event.
• Examples:
Recognizing alumni at an event is rarely needed, but at Torch Awards,
alumni honorees and donors are always recognized.
In some cases, a donor may trump an elected official.
• Rules of thumb:
• For recognitions, keep similar groups together (e.g., elected officials should be
recognized at the same time, etc.)
• Always go macro to micro or vice versa; do not skip around with who is being
recognized.
• Examples that we are most asked about (in precedent order):
U.S. Federal Government
• President
• Vice President
• Governor of the State (when in that state)
• Speaker of the House of Representatives
• Former Presidents
• American Ambassadors
• Secretary of State
• Foreign Ambassadors
GUIDELINE 11
• Widows of Former Presidents
• Members of the Cabinet
• Senators
• Governors (of other States)
• Former Vice Presidents
• Members of the House of Representatives
• Mayors
• State Senators and Representatives
U.S. State Government
• Governor
• Lieutenant Governor
• Speaker of the House
• U.S. Senator
• State Cabinet Members
• Member of the House of Representatives
• Mayor of the City (when in own city)
• State Senator
• Mayor of the City (when outside their city)
• State Representatives
• Elected Officials: State, County, City
Business/Corporate
• Chairman of the Board
• President
• CEO
• Executive Vice President
• Senior Vice President
• Regional Vice President
• Vice President
• Executive Director
• Director
• Manager
Board liaisons should always be notified if their members (specifically the officers and/or the
entire board) are invited to events.
Though we realize our board members can hold multiple roles on campus, out of courtesy,
we ask that you at the very least send the board liaisons your event flyer/summary. Board
members are often used to going to them for everything. It shows lack of communication
when they cannot appropriately respond to their members.
GUIDELINE 13
PLANNING LOGISTICS
Building Maintenance
• The Office of the President has a checklist that can be useful in the routine
maintenance of event spaces.
• To receive checklist, please email a request to Jehnny Rivera
([email protected]).
Design Services
• Services include HTML invitation design, printed programs, flyers, retractable
banners, step and repeats, etc.
• Intake form: https://externalrelations.fiu.edu/projects/index.html
Venue
• Selection of location should be done at the initial planning meeting. This can vary
depending on event and needs, (i.e. ribbon cutting)
FIU Facilities Management
• Online request form: myfacilities.fiu.edu
• They can be contacted for numerous services such as: chairs, tables, stage, plants,
etc. Check form for a complete list of services
GUIDELINE 15
Event Setup
Seating
• Reserved Seating
Speakers/Platform Party
VIPs (donors, board members, community leaders)
University Administration, when applicable
• If anyone is to be recognized from the audience, ensure that the speaker knows
where they are seated ahead of time.
• Ensure that all speakers have the appropriate briefing on stage management.
• Stage management includes: how to enter/exit stage, how to use audio/visual
equipment, where beverage will be located at/near podium, etc.
• As mentioned already, precedence matters!!!
• For the seating area: make sure placards say “Reserved”. However, if there are
guests who need to be placed in a specific seat for the event, then we highly
suggest that you use their last names on the placards, so no one takes their seats.
• Speaker should be made aware of this so they can point them out during
their speech.
• If your tables are numbered, the table layout should be in numerical order.
• If they are NOT in numerical order, or if you are using non-numerical names,
ensure you have a table schematic available at each entrance to your event
room — and/or staff stationed at each entrance with the schematics to help
guide guests to their tables.
• The low centerpieces, which allows for conversations across the table and easy
sight to the stage.
• Since this was a large event, pre-plated salads are acceptable.
• Sponsor recognition was on the table but not overstated.
• Table number was visible Note: Your table numbers should be in order!!
When numbers skip around in the room, makes it very hard for your guests to find
their seats.
GUIDELINE 17
Hints on how to remember which glass is yours:
• Make a “b” with your left hand, and “d” with your right hand. If looking at the plate,
“b” is for bread (left hand, means left side of plate) and “d” is for drink (right hand
means right hand of plate).
• If you don’t want to make hand signs at the dinner table, you can also use the
acronym BMW: bread, meal, water.
DO NOT use the podiums in the pictures. Since banner flags can be easily damaged/
wrinkled, we are moving away from this look as a university.
• Podium should include a microphone with stand, unless otherwise requested by the
speaker(s) — e.g., lapel, hand-held, and Countryman Mics.
• Podium should have a light — either connected, or overhead.
• There should be nothing placed on the podium except the script (i.e. No notebooks,
laptops, glasses, etc.) unless specifically requested/approved by the speaker.
• A tall glass/bottle of water should be provided for speakers (preferably in a shelf
inside podium, or table near podium, or at his/her seat).
GUIDELINE 19
Example: Outdoor event (clear podium).
• If no foreign flag is necessary, U.S. flag stands alone — or all three are bundled
together (in rank order).
• If there is a visiting state/agency/organization flag to be showcased, that will go
next to that flag’s level (i.e., State next to state, university next to agency, etc.).
• Army, Marines, Navy, Air Force, Space Force, and Coast Guard
GUIDELINE 21
Official Backdrops
Though not necessary, backdrops are great for official event photos — and can liven up a dull
corner of a room!
If you are planning to purchase one, we do suggest that you purchase a matte finish (less
glare in photos) and ensure you can properly store it after each use (so that it does not get
wrinkled/damaged).
You will note the framing of this photo does not cut anyone off or shows the ends of the
backdrop. This is especially important when you are considering mailing the guest of honor
photos or promote the photos in marketing materials. Think: Can this photo be framed?
• Full considerations should be made for all types of guests when designating parking
for events (i.e., disabilities, VIPs, distance from event, etc.)
• Directional signage should be coordinated through the Office of Parking &
Transportation. Signage should be placed along all routes from each point of entry
(regardless if directions were sent to guests prior).
• If attendants are needed, please work with the Office of Parking & Transportation to
discuss expectations.
Additional Notes:
• Always open the door for your guest and allow them to enter first.
• If directing them to a location, it is appropriate to walk a ½ step in front of them.
Never walk in front or block them; always walk to their side.
• If you are also with an administrator who knows where to go, allow them to
lead the VIP.
• Respect their personal space.
• It is ideal to stand behind the person your VIP is speaking to and make eye
contact. It is important to give them the opportunity to wrap up the conversation
ON THEIR OWN. However, if you are pressed for time, give them at a minimum 1
minute before politely interrupting the conversation. These cues should always be
discussed with your VIP so that they are aware as to why you may be doing this.
GUIDELINE 23
• Do not be too pushy or territorial with VIPs. Give them the respect of being
self-sufficient while still offering guidance and assistance.
Additional notes:
Audio/Visual
GUIDELINE 25
• For a state-by-state breakdown, you may go to
ncsl.org/legislatures-elections/ethicshome/50-state-table-gift-laws.aspx
• For guests:
• It is important to let your guests know how to dress for your event.
• Do NOT assume they all share the same definitions as you!
Examples:
• Formal — To some this means business, to others this means ball
gowns and tuxedos.
• Gala — To some this means ball gowns and tuxedos, to others it
means cocktail attire and sports coat.
• This is especially important when inviting guests from other nations/cultures.
• If there is something you specifically do NOT want them wearing (e.g. casual, but
no jeans) then make it known to your guests. You should never make any of your
guests feel uncomfortable — this is especially true for women!!
• For staff:
• Dress for the occasion, but always professionally.
• Always wear your nametags (right side).
• FIU pins should be worn.
• 55 percent of a first impression is based on the way you look. Looking professional
does not mean wearing a suit. This means that even if it is a BBQ, your team should
still be put together (i.e., shirts ironed, well-fitted bottoms, event-appropriate shoes,
etc.)
• Industry standard states that nametags are worn on your right side for two reasons:
(1) logos are often worn over your heart — left side (2) when you shake someone’s
hand, it is normally with the right — the line of vision automatically goes up to the
other person’s name, which is on their right side, and therefore the name tag is
easily viewed.
• Pins could be the university one or departmental. But remember that you are our
brand ambassadors, so it is important you showcase your pride! It is also nice to
have pins available for guests at the event.
Prior to your event ensure that you have sufficient staff to assist with duties such as
registration, ushering and stage management.
• A full run-through with your staff is always recommended.
• Entrances and registration tables are normally where most questions are asked.
• Consider staff well-being.
• Make sure your staff is given appropriate breaks (including restroom and
meal breaks).
• If your event is longer than 3 hours, you should be providing your team
something to eat/drink. Out of courtesy and good business practice, this
includes your vendors (if not already included in their contracts).
• We all love being in charge, but we must trust our team members!! Bring them into
the fold. Let them understand the purpose for the event, what the program is, who
the important guests are, etc.
• Staff assigned to registration/entrances MUST know the event basics:
• Know where bathrooms/exits/smoking areas are.
• Know seating arrangements.
• Know who your speakers/VIPs are that may need assistance upon arrival.
• Everyone working the event (staff, volunteers, vendors, etc.) should know who to
call if they are asked a question, they don’t know the answer to, or need assistance
in troubleshooting. Emergency contact cards, text groups, and walkie-talkies are
just a few examples of how to inform your staff of where to go if they need help.
GUIDELINE 27
OFFICE OF THE PRESIDENT’S EVENT
STANDARD OPERATING PROCEDURE
Presidential Request Forms
Presidential Briefings
• Preparation/Approval Meetings
• To be conducted with key Presidential staff (i.e., Chief of Staff, RH House
Manager, and must include a representative from UCE).
• The purpose of these meetings (if necessary) is to get final approval on any
questions/concerns you may have about your event.
• Note: President may request this meeting to occur directly with him, but those
will be scheduled upon his request only.
• Briefing Meetings
• Should take place three weeks out from your event.
• Briefing Documents
• The briefing document should be submitted to the Office of the President
by the deadline listed on the “Upcoming Speeches” document. It is typically
due 2 business days prior to your event by 3:00 pm. This document should
list the pertinent information the President needs to know about your event.
For example, you should include the program, remarks, other program
participants’ remarks (if possible), VIP bios with photos, and latest RSVP
list.
See page 70 for example.
• De-Briefing Meetings
• Note: President may request this meeting to occur, but those will be scheduled
upon his request only. However, department heads and event coordinators
should meet collectively to discuss the event that occurred for best practices for
next planning.
• Walkthroughs
• At minimum, the participants should be event coordinators for requesting
department and key Presidential Staff (Chief of Staff)
Where necessary, you may also need to include: UCE team (university-
wide event), Donor Relations event team (donor naming, recognition or
stewardship event), Logistical support staff (as needed), and Catering (if
necessary)
• For off-campus events — Schedule no less than a month out.
• For on-campus events — Schedule no less than a week out.
GUIDELINE 29
Invites
• All invites bearing the President’s name should be sent to the Office of the President
for approval prior to dissemination.
• The text and design of all invitations must be approved by OOP
• If the event involves the community at large (FIU or Miami-Dade), the invitation
must then be pre-approved by the Office of University Ceremonies & Events
before the President reviews.
• For events of 20 and under, invites should go out no later than 3 weeks prior.
For large-scale events, invites should go out 4 weeks prior.
• List the President’s name without the title unless it is going out to external
constituents
Budgets
• All requesting departments are responsible for all expenses related to the event.
• Any quality control or quality enhancement requests from the President that require
funds are also the responsibility of the requesting departments.
• These are inclusive of events at the Reagan House, unless otherwise agreed to by
the President.
• Examples of budget items include but are not limited to catering, floral, rentals,
A/V, gifts, police, parking, etc.
• Examples of “quality control” and “quality enhancements” include but are not
limited to A/V (staging, lighting, video production, etc.), signage (directional,
greeting, etc.), painting/cleaning of surrounding areas, safety, etc.
• To avoid any unforeseen budget expenses, we highly recommend following our
approval/briefing timelines.
Room Ambiance
• Centerpieces (if used) should allow for visibility across the table and to all speakers.
• Events should be inviting, yet festive. Special touches are always appreciated by
your guests!
• Special touches: an example was the HWCOM Inaugural Celebration
Reception where photo frames of the history of the college were placed
on each table, including targeted photos with VIPs we knew would
attend the event.
• Plants and floral arrangements can always help fill up a room, if needed.
• All Reagan House events are managed by House Manager Lynda Rodriguez
([email protected]).
• For larger events (i.e., receptions, salons, recognition events, etc.), staff from
the requesting department is required to work the event as determined by the
house manager.
• Roles include but are not limited to greeting guests, guest registration, catering
management, set-up, and program management.
• We ask that all staff helping the house manager discuss attire. We now have
official event jackets.
GUIDELINE 31
Dining Protocol (non-RH)
• Maximum capacities
• Dining room — 18 (including the President)
• Courtyard — 150, standing/cocktail tables
• Living room — 40, rounds (not preferred, must have presidential approval)
• Seating charts can be recommended to House Manager, but the President will
approve final seating.
• Menus are set according to presidential preferences. If your guest of honor has
any dietary restrictions or preferences, we need to be made aware within 1 week
of the event.
RSVP Format for the Briefing Document
• We must receive RSVP lists for all events in which the President is participating.
• Lists should have the following elements:
• Full Name
• RSVP
• Affiliation (student, faculty, staff, donor “guest of xyz”)
• Title (when possible)
• Total guest count listed at the bottom of the list
For guest bios include a photograph and blurb: This means 2-5 sentence summary on who
they are.
• Reasons for blurbs — (1) he may not know much about the audience; (2) they may
be donors; and (3) he may need talking points to help carry the conversation.
• Exception — Student Events — For them, we generally ask for major, year,
expected graduation date.
Scripting Remarks
• President’s remarks are drafted by the requesting department and Media Relations.
If using the President’s speechwriter, please ensure they receive at least one
month’s notice of the request with appropriate event details.
• Special requests
• A minimum of size 16 type size; Verdana Font; 1.5 spacing; page numbers at
bottom right
• Talking points should be in bullet form while speeches should be broken out by
the natural pause of each sentence.
• Phonetic spellings of uncommon names must be included.
• Drafted remarks must be consistent with the message you are trying to evoke
at your event.
Note: Speechwriter is Ana Valdes ([email protected]).
In her absence, please contact Maydel Santana ([email protected]).
Please recall the earlier note on scripts — if you are asking him to recognize people in the
audience, it is imperative for the script to include where they are seated so that he may point
to them as he speaks.
• The President should not recognize VIPs — he should not be assigned to make all
the recognitions (donors, honorees, etc.) for the event … that should be assigned to
a VP, Dean or MC.
• If he is asked to do so, a real-time recognition list should be provided to him prior to
program start (based on actual attendance). The precedence order is as follows:
• Elected officials (Federal, State, then Local)
• Key community leaders (business, donors, etc.)
• Board of Trustees members
• Chairmen of any other FIU boards
• ** Remember that “relative precedence” may change this order. The
university’s protocol officers can assist with this if needed. **
GUIDELINE 33
WHO TO KNOW
Office of the President
Points of Contact:
Government Affairs
Should be notified if elected officials are attending your event & may assist in staffing.
To learn more about our state and federal priorities, please visit government.fiu.edu.
Point of contact:
Note: Sometimes Advancement & University Ceremonies & Events will work on the same
event (ex. naming of a building is an official university event but involves a donor).
GUIDELINE 35
Alumni Relations
Points of Contact:
Spirit Teams/Rentals
• Wolfe University Center: Details on this facility can be found on their website.
https://dasa.fiu.edu/all-departments/wolfe-university-center/
• Kovens Center: This facility has a very detailed website that can assist you in
planning your events. https://kovens.fiu.edu
Logistical Support - MBUS
• Website: mbus.fiu.edu
• Special notes: Closest parking is the Park@420 Garage (16th and Drexel Ave).
• Website: jmof.fiu.edu
• Website: wolfsonian.org
• The museum has an online reservation system for space rental and tour requests.
• Special notes:
• Closest parking is the Pelican Parking Garage (1027 Collins Ave).
• They utilize a preferred in-house caterer.
• Website: broward.fiu.edu
FIU Properties
GUIDELINE 37
External Vendors
*This checklist is to serve as a guideline and is not an exhaustive list of all event needs and
requirements. If you have questions or need further clarification, please contact Office of
University Ceremonies & Events or the Office of the President.
Committee
GUIDELINE 39
Budget
• Determine who is paying for the event and confirm availability of funds
• Request quotes from all external and internal vendors (venue, A/V, facilities,
catering, website, registration, signage, printing, etc.)
• Use these quotes as a guideline when creating your proposed budget
• Create budget and keep it top of mind throughout the planning process
Venue
• Determine desired possible dates & times for your event keeping in mind possible
event conflicts or hindrances that may affect attendance or attendee experience
• Establish your needs, keeping your goals and objectives in mind.
• Think about the following questions when choosing a venue:
• How many attendees will you need to accommodate?
• What are your space requirements for each room?
• What are the A/V requirements for each room?
• Is Wi-Fi included or an additional cost?
• Is electricity included or would we need to outsource for more?
Registration
GUIDELINE 41
the registration table staffed at all times, especially during peak hours (morning and
afternoon)
• The Registration Lead(s) should be always at registration to handle any
registration issues including switching of registrant names, payments, etc.
• Registration staff should be briefed on all possible registration scenarios prior to
registration opening up
• If needed, send out a call for proposals more than 6-9 months prior to the
conference date
• Once speakers are chosen, confirm their technology needs including but not limited
to their presentation and type of microphones they prefer
• Microphone types include: Podium Microphone, Wireless Microphone,
Countryman mics, & Lapel mics
• Countryman mics are preferred especially during Davos Style and
Fireside Chat
• Establish what type of speaking setup is appropriate for your keynotes and
breakouts
• Speakers should receive information on the conference point of contact, audience
demographics, presentation procedures, hotel, and transportation information,
finalized agenda and day of instructions
• Factor in not only A/V needs, but seating needs and easiest flow of entry for your
moderators and speakers
• Speaking types include:
• Individual Speakers- presentation made by one speaker with a possible power
point or video component
• Davos Style- each speaker making a 10-minute introduction followed by
discussions in the panel and with the audience. No power point presentations
or formal speeches will be used, to foster an open debate and lively interaction
• Fireside Chat- A more laid-back style of conversation with a moderator and
speaker
• If a stage is used, ensure that the stairs up to the stage have railings for safe entry
and exit. In addition, ensure that there is some type of backdrop at the back of the
stage to ensure safety for speakers (plants are always a good option.)
• When a speaker or moderator comes onto stage, the screen should display the
name of the talk, the speaker’s name, and the organization they are associated
with
GUIDELINE 43
• Prepare invitation list
• Determine the dates for design and sending Save-the-Date, Invitation (early bird
and regular), reminders, headline speakers, RSVP Deadline, etc.
• Promote the conference via social media. Mediums can include Facebook,
Instagram, Twitter, Snapchat, etc.
• Make sure to focus on social platforms that appeal to your conference-goer.
Do not waste efforts on promoting on a platform that is unlikely to reach your
conference guests
• Different communication plans should be established for conference participants,
speakers, keynotes, and exhibitors
• Conference Participants should receive general conference information including
registration details and other pertinent information
• Speakers and keynotes should receive specific information regarding their overall
participation in conference including A/V requirements
• Exhibitors should receive specific information regarding shipping and handling, set-
up, breakdown, etc.
Design Materials
• Identify what signage and printed materials you will need for the conference. Some
general items include:
• Directional Signage
• Registration Signage
• Sponsor Signage
• Printed Program
• Lanyards
• Badges
• Podium Signage
• Promo Items- pens, notebooks, FIU pins, etc.
• PowerPoint template
• There is no such thing as too much signage! Make sure that it is very easy for
conference guests to situate where each room is
• All signage should be consistent with the theme of the conference
• Schedule a site visit with your Audio-Visual vendor to ascertain the requirements
and needs of your conference
• Contact speakers to confirm their special needs or requirements
• Make sure you have appropriate electricity onsite to handle A/V needs
• Assign at least one person to manage audio visual in the main room and your
breakout rooms
• Identify your expected food and beverage needs based on estimated attendees and
staff
• It is typically best practice to order more than what the count will be
• Work with the venue or vendor to establish a menu
• Factor in food and beverage options that cater to those with dietary
restrictions as well
• Conference goers appreciate coffee and snacks during the conference outside of
breakfast and lunch so if the budget allows it is recommended you request it
• Typical menu would include: Breakfast, AM Break, Lunch, and PM Break
• Welcome Receptions (if scheduled) are typically held on the first night of
the conference
GUIDELINE 45
VIRTUAL EVENTS
Before hosting a virtual event, consider the following questions:
FIU Resources
Transitioning your event to a virtual setting can be daunting- you are not alone! The team
below are ready to help create a seamless experience for your attendees.
• Employee Engagement
• Staff town hall- hosted by the Division of Human Resources
• Faculty town hall- hosted by the Office of the Provost
• Mindfulness in the Workplace- hosted by the Office of Employee Assistance
• Student Engagement
• Student Town halls
• Social media contests
• Commencement TikTok Challenge
GUIDELINE 47
• Community Engagement
• Annual MLK Commemorative Celebration- Multicultural Programs and
Services
• President’s Council Roundtable - hosted by FIU’s President’s Council
Hybrid Events
• Hybrid events have been incorporated into our next normal to broaden our event
attendance and reach
• Example: Summer B and Fall 2021 Town Hall in the Graham Center Ballrooms
• Streamed via FIU Facebook and Webcast as well as other locations including
the Graham Center Pit and the Wolfe University Center
• If you are hosting a virtual or hybrid event, please contact Media Technology
Services (MTS) for support. You may also reach out to [email protected] for
guidance on virtual event protocols.
Moderator Expectations
Panelist Expectations
GUIDELINE 49
• Panelist backups should be assigned
• Briefing with the panelists and their respective teams
Participant Expectation
Additional Tips
• Be yourself!
• Listen and engage
• Do not cut anyone off
• Practice don’t memorize (for power point slides, don’t read off the slide, sum up in
your own words!)
• Monitor your body language
• If technical difficulties occur, make sure back-up staff are well versed on material
and are ready to get on camera at a moment’s notice!
• Staff
• Each unit/department should have representative(s) assigned to assist in
answering questions
• Create a WhatsApp or Teams chat to facilitate communication
• Pre-submitted questions
• We recommend adding the name of the presenter at the bottom of the slide to
better facilitate presentation.
• Make sure PowerPoint presentation includes new branding:
https://brand.fiu.edu/toolkit/
GUIDELINE 51
DONOR RECOGNITION EVENTS
Gift agreement signing photo-op
The following items should be included in the setup for a gift agreement signing photo-op
• Backdrop/step & repeat
• Table with skirting and chairs
• Leather binders/folders that contain the gift agreement for each participant
• Approved pens
• A photo-op list after the main photo is taken
CHECKLIST TEMPLATE
GUIDELINE 53
EVENT CHECKLIST TEMPLATE
CHECKLIST TEMPLATE
Event Title
Date
Time
Location
Agenda
Topic(s)
• Speaker 1
• Speaker 2
Panel Discussion
• Panelist 1
• Panelist 2
• Panelist 3
Event Title
Date
Time
Location
Program
GUIDELINE 57
RUN OF SHOW SAMPLE
5:30pm Registration
Location:
• Torch recipients escorted to cocktail reception in Gold Suite by student
ambassadors.
• Torch recipients given a gold stole to distinguish them during the night.
• Past Torch recipients given blue cords.
6:15pm Speaker will welcome guests and introduce the President for remarks.
6:18pm President
• Welcome guests
• Congratulate recipients for their accomplishments & acknowledges
Honors College recipients
• Thanks our key sponsors
• Leads champagne toast (no photography)
Staff TBD to cue catering- Bars are open inside main floor
7:00pm Voiceover played in the cocktail area & main floor – Welcome to the 17th Annual
FIU Torch Awards. Doors are now open. Please make your way inside to find
your seat.
Staff TBD to cue staff TBD to begin program and intro video
Lights dimmed
7:23pm Staff TBD to cue Trail of Torch participants (3) for entrance
Cue slide: Flame effect and Torch logo as soon as torchbearers reach
center stage and light the torch
GUIDELINE 59
INVITE TEMPLATE
Kenneth A. Jessell
President
cordially invites you
to join him for a
on
Day of the Week, Month Day, Year
start time p.m. – end time p.m.
~~
Business casual attire
~~
GUIDELINE 61
INVITE SAMPLE
1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14
15 16 17 18 19 20 21 22 23 25 26 27 28
24
29 30 31 32 33 34 35 36 37 38 39 40 41 42
43 44 45 46 47 48 49 50 51 52 53 54 55 56
57 58 59 60 61 62 63 64 65 66
67 68
GUIDELINE 63
POWERPOINT
F L O R ID A IN T E R N A T IO N A L U N IV E R S IT Y
Bag Sponsors
Hosted by:
The following protocols and guidelines will be used when an event is to take place at the Ronald W.
Reagan Presidential House (RH):
• The department requesting the President’s participation should first contact the Office of the President
(OOP), in order to select dates(s). Once chosen, the department must complete the attached Event
Request Form (ERF).
NOTE: Though dates are held, the President’s participation is not confirmed until you
receive email confirmation.
• Once confirmed, the final ERF will be forwarded to Lynda Rodriguez, the Manager of Events &
Operations at RH (House Manager), who will reach out to discuss logistics.
• The initiating department will incur ALL expenses for the event. These include, but are not limited to,
catering, linens, flowers, police, parking and photography. Note: All catering – despite funding source –
must be provided by one of RH’s preferred caterers.
• The initiating department will draft the invitation. Please email Valeria Espina Stevenson, Assistant Vice
President (AVP), Office of the President for approved invitation template. Thereafter, the proposed
invitation should be emailed back to her for review and approval prior to dissemination. The initiating
department is responsible for sending invitation, follow-up invitations and confirmation emails (to
include directions to RH) to all confirmed guests.
For events of 20 and under, invites should go out no later than 2 weeks prior.
For large-scale events, invites should go out 4 weeks prior.
Please allow at least one week for the President to review and approve the draft invitation.
• The initiating department must put together the proposed guest list, with all fields filled out, for the
AVP and President to approve. Please email AVP for approved guest list template.
• The initiating department is responsible for creating nametags for all confirmed guests. Please note that
we have the inserts at RH for the cards to be placed in. Please email AVP for approved nametag template.
• The initiating department must designate a contact person and provide necessary support staff to work
prior, during and after the event. A staff member from the initiating department is required for the
registration table. Registration and the front door must be staffed at all times during the event.
Corresponding staff assignments will be up to the requesting department, but a final list of assignments
must be provided to the House Manager no later than 2 business days prior.
• The President will be briefed internally approximately 7 days before event. As such, we will require
you to provide the following a week prior to event: an event program, guest list, bios for VIPs on guest
list, background on the event (ex. purpose or goal), and if the President is requested to speak, detailed
speaking points. If updates to the original submission occur, a final version of all documents should be
received electronically by the OOP by close of business the business day prior to event.
ADVANCEMENT UNITS: For Advancement areas, including Development Officers, please use the Advancement
request form and submit to SVP Howard Lipman’s office for approval.
GUIDELINE 67
Ronald W. Reagan Presidential House Event Request Form (ERF)
Event Name:
Requesting Department:
Purpose of Event:
*Note*
• Kindly remember that you are required to provide the following a week prior to event: an event
program, guest list, bios for VIPs on guest list, background on the event (ex. purpose or goal), and if
the President is requested to speak, detailed speaking points. If updates to the original submission
occur, a final version of all documents should be received electronically by OOP by close of
business the business day prior to event.
Upon action on this request, the Office of the President will contact the Contact Person designated on
this ERF via e-mail to confirm/deny/change event date.
Please check only those items that apply to your specific event: (The House Manager will contact you to discuss the details
and logistics)
Invitations
o Date sent:
o Specifications:
Catering
o Approved Vendor:
o Specifications:
Alcohol
o Specifications:
o The initiating department is responsible for filling out and sending a copy of the approved Service, Sale or
Consumption of Alcohol Form (https://webforms.fiu.edu/view.php?id=1738533) to the House Manager if
there is to be alcohol served at their event. Please note that dinners do not qualify as an “event” per the
alcohol policy however, if there will be students at dinner, the form does need to be filled out.
Flowers
o Specifications:
Photography
o Specifications:
Entertainment
o Specifications:
Public Safety:
o Specifications:
Parking and Transportation:
o Specifications:
Audio/Visual
o Specifications:
Other
o Specifications:
*Note*
• Kindly remember that you are required to provide the following a week prior to event: an event
program, guest list, bios for VIPs on guest list, background on the event (ex. purpose or goal), and if
the President is requested to speak, detailed speaking points. If updates to the original submission
occur, a final version of all documents should be received electronically by Valeria by close of
business the business day prior to event.
Upon action on this request, the Office of the President will contact the Contact Person designated on
this ERF via e-mail to confirm/deny/change event date.
GUIDELINE 69
BRIEFING DOCUMENT
Date:
Time:
Location:
Attendees:
Staff:
Purpose of meeting/event:
Additional Info:
Attachments:
(1) Program
(2) Proposed Remarks
(3) RSVP List
(4) VIP Bios
PROGRAM
GUIDELINE 71
BRIEFING DOCUMENT
PROPOSED REMARKS
VIP BIOS
GUIDELINE 73
BRIEFING DOCUMENT
RSVP LIST
Total-
THEATRE STYLE
For Q&A, microphones on stands should be set up on either side of the room.
GUIDELINE 75
EVENT SET-UP EXAMPLES
ROUND TABLE
U-SHAPE SEATING
HOLLOW-SQUARE SEATING
GUIDELINE 77
EVENT SET-UP EXAMPLES
HOLLOW-SQUARE SEATING
OUTDOOR EVENTS
OUTDOOR EVENTS
GUIDELINE 79
EVENT SET-UP EXAMPLES
OUTDOOR EVENTS
GUIDELINE 81
EVENT SET-UP EXAMPLES
RIBBON CUTTING
PHOTO-OP
GUIDELINE 83
EVENT SET-UP EXAMPLES
RECEPTION
EXHIBITS
GUIDELINE 85
EVENT SET-UP EXAMPLES
EXHIBITS
GROUNDBREAKING CEREMONY
GUIDELINE 87
EVENT SET-UP EXAMPLES
GALAS
PARADES
89
GUIDELINE
EVENT BRANDING, SIGNAGE & DÉCOR
GUIDELINE 91
EVENT BRANDING, SIGNAGE & DÉCOR
92
FLORIDA INTERNATIONAL UNIVERSITY
EVENT BRANDING, SIGNAGE & DÉCOR
GUIDELINE 93
EVENT BRANDING, SIGNAGE & DÉCOR
94
FLORIDA INTERNATIONAL UNIVERSITY
EVENT BRANDING, SIGNAGE & DÉCOR
GUIDELINE 95
EVENT BRANDING, SIGNAGE & DÉCOR
96
FLORIDA INTERNATIONAL UNIVERSITY
EVENT BRANDING, SIGNAGE & DÉCOR
GUIDELINE 97
EVENT BRANDING, SIGNAGE & DÉCOR
98
FLORIDA INTERNATIONAL UNIVERSITY
EVENT BRANDING, SIGNAGE & DÉCOR
GUIDELINE 99
EVENT BRANDING, SIGNAGE & DÉCOR
REGENCY BALLROOM
PRE-CONFERENCE
TRACK 1, TRACK 2,
REGISTRATION
TRACK 4
INNOVATIONS IN INNOVATIONS IN
CYBERSECURITY EDUCATION TRAINING CYBERSECURITY EDUCATION TRAINING
AND WORKFORCE DEVELOPMENT AND WORKFORCE DEVELOPMENT
MEDIA STAFF
GUIDELINE 101
NOTES
GUIDELINE 103
104 FLORIDA INTERNATIONAL UNIVERSITY
Florida International University
11200 SW 8th St, PC 539
Miami, FL 33199
fiu.edu
21147_03/22