HKS commencement

The first step in revisioning HKS’s 2022 Commencement was to redesign the stage backdrop and set dressing for this important event.

At the request of Marcom leadership, I set out to research and propose the new set design including:

1. Swapping out the former red pipe and drape backdrop with black to enhance the contrast and emphasis of the newly branded red fabric banners.
2. Utilizing banners of varying and stepped widths to give the illusion of depth.
3. Refinishing an outdated solid wood podium to match the wood finish of the HKS Commencement chairs and rebranding it with a modern new look.
4. Strategically positioning the Harvard Kennedy School logo on the backdrop banners and podium to enhance its presence in photo and video archives of this important event.
5. Designing and branding a table for storing and staging the distribution of the diplomas as well as planters with topiaries to dress up the stage’s platform.
6. Adding the quintessential JFK Ask what you can do banners—seen elsewhere on campus—to the tent poles for the purpose of highlighting HKS’s mission and visually activating the audience areas under the tent.

Once my proposal was green-lighted, we identified VDA, Inc. as our partner for designing the furniture, building the set, and installing the set elements, in coordination with HKS’s Campus Planning and Operations team.

In addition to revisioning the event’s set, I worked closely with the Communications Director, Commencement Planning Coordinator, and Office of Communications and Public Affairs (OCPA) designers to identify and elevate every touch point in the graduating students’ and guests’ Commencement week experience.

Examples of these touch points include:

• Banners and assets for email communications to students leading up to Commencement week
• Cross-campus digital screens congratulating students and providing the week’s agenda and other important details about the weeklong series of events
• Printed programs distributed during Class Day, Mid-Career Mason, and Diploma ceremonies
• Branded gifts awarded to distinguished graduates
• Welcoming and wayfinding signage directing students and guests throughout the weeklong schedule of events
• Branded name badges for faculty, graduates, and guests attending reception celebrations
• Large-scale banners highlighting event entrances, delineating degree program reception tents, and noting accessible entrances and restrooms trailers
• Branded t-shirts identifying volunteer staff for event day support
• Jumbotron screens displaying welcoming and closing messaging
• Opening screens and thumbnails for YouTube videos

The weeklong events held to celebrate the 2022 and 2020–2021 graduates were a resounding success. The sheer joy of celebrating in person was evident. HKS Commencement planning coordinator, her core planning committee, and the contributions of over a hundred support staff members ensured the success of both Commencement celebrations. I was fortunate to have the opportunity to play a small role in elevating the event experience.