In a landmark event, TSEC collaborated with Salem State University (SSU) to publicly launch their historic $75 million fundraising campaign titled “Meet the Moment.” This extraordinary celebration marked the largest academic fundraising initiative in Massachusetts state history, highlighting SSU’s rich legacy, dynamic present and ambitious future. The event embodied SSU’s mission and vision while it aimed to raise crucial funds in support of the university’s four campaign pillars:

Student Success, Financial Assistance, Unrestricted Support and SSU Bold.

Eighteen months in the making, “Meet the Moment” was a vibrant tribute to SSU’s heritage as well as a bold look towards its future. The venue, a transformed ice hockey rink, was brought to life with immersive 270-degree projection mapping and captivating lighting effects designed to engage and inspire the audience. The space also featured 10 activation booths, each telling compelling student stories while highlighting the specific funding needs of the campaign. The program culminated in a dramatic onstage moment when the University President cued a kabuki drop that revealed a colorful and energetic celebration. This stunning transformation perfectly embodied SSU’s vision: honoring its past while embracing the future.

TSEC expertly managed every aspect of this monumental event, from budget oversight and vendor coordination to scriptwriting, content design, video production and custom graphic creation. Our goal was to craft a high-impact experience that resonated emotionally with attendees, all while meeting the university’s five key objectives:

  • Create a passionate, memorable and elegant event within budget
  • Showcase student stories and acknowledge the contributions of faculty and staff
  • Engage the audience through a series of dynamic, emotional moments
  • Provide unexpected, delightful surprises in a familiar setting
  • Capture powerful visual content and maximize signage for future events

More than just a celebration, this event was a defining “moment” for SSU, leaving an indelible mark on attendees and laying a strong foundation for the university’s future fundraising success.