TSEC was selected by Bloomsburg University to curate a milestone celebration for the launch of their It Starts With Us campaign in October 2024. Our objective: to design an immersive experience that would engage and inspire attendees, galvanizing support for this ambitious fundraising initiative.

The event served as a powerful celebration of students, donors, alumni, and the broader BU community, showcasing the remarkable achievement of having already raised $73 million toward the $100 million goal. To effectively communicate the campaign’s vision, TSEC crafted an event strategy that blended impactful storytelling with dynamic elements such as original film production, live stage performances, visual graphics and in-person presentations.

The evening began with the evocative teaser “It Starts…”, which was completed with various inspiring words at key moments throughout the event.

  • Upon arrival, a prominent floor decal featured the phrase “It Starts Here.”
  • Guests were then greeted by a captivating digital cloud graphic with the message “It Starts With a Dream,” setting the tone before immersing them in the history of Bloomsburg University.
  • As they proceeded into the pre-reception area, the words “It Starts With Commitment” welcomed them, where they interacted with students at activation stations who shared their personal educational journeys.
  • Finally, attendees entered the theater for the main program, where the screen displayed the powerful phrase “It Starts Now” as the lights dimmed.

The theatrical program featured multiple presenters and performances by the Bloomsburg University music department, underscoring the three core pillars of the campaign: Attract, Elevate, and Prepare. Graphic imagery and video content reinforced these themes before a choir of 60 students performed Kind and Generous by Natalie Merchant, expressing gratitude to donors for their support. As the program ended, university leadership announced the $100 million campaign goal, accompanied by digital confetti displayed across five large screens.

The evening concluded with a post-program dessert reception where extensive campaign branding provided a festive backdrop for donors and students to engage in a celebratory atmosphere.

This event successfully marked the launch of the campaign, fostering meaningful connections between donors and students in a joyful, inspiring environment.