Behind the Scenes: The Planning and Execution of MPorium’s Events & Community Outreach Team

The Events & Community Outreach Team focuses on building meaningful connections within the Marist campus and the Poughkeepsie community. Through a variety of events and collaborations with local businesses, clubs, and organizations, the team fosters a strong, inclusive community. They organize both small pop-ups and larger gatherings while developing lasting relationships with non-profits, small businesses, and community groups. Additionally, they support special events like the Dance Ensemble’s recital, Marist Singers performances, and the Runway of Dreams and Silver Needle Runway shows, while fulfilling their semester donation quota.

Event planning varies depending on the scale of the event. Smaller pop-ups require straightforward organization, including merchandise transport and staff coordination. For larger events, such as those involving multiple campus organizations, planning involves multiple meetings to finalize details, create material lists, and assign tasks. Responsibilities include booking venues, arranging catering, and promoting the event via the Marist Events Calendar and marketing efforts. Internal teams, such as Store Operations, Marketing, and Visual, ensure smooth execution. Larger events, like the annual Fall and Fashion Fests, require additional planning, including vendor coordination, managing insurance, securing parking, and collaborating with various university departments like Student Activities and Safety & Security.

Through careful planning and collaboration, the team creates memorable events that support Marist and strengthen connections with local businesses and organizations. When asked about their favorite store products, the team highlighted items like the Marist Embroidered Wristlet and the Butter Bliss Lip Balm. Diana, the Student Director of Events and Community Outreach, particularly favors the Cab T-Shirt, which celebrates local Poughkeepsie taxi services.