Scope

The scope of the work includes:

• Evaluate best in class competing university conference service department and study various private sector conference and event facility models.
• Work closely with external clients working group to create a centrally risk mitigation tactics, and scalable rate structures. Review appropriate SUNY guidelines as related to event management.
• Create a business model for a comprehensive Conference Services Office with planned organizational growth, pass through accounting that covers expenses, clear metrics and ROI, and a space allocation strategy. Clearly define the mission, vision and goals of the department.
• Explore the creation of a user-friendly website to serve as a hub for external clients (search bar: improve how search inquiries are directed; video tutorials; presence on and link from University's home page)
• Propose revenue allocation model that builds community, rewards participation, promotes infrastructure development, and generates central revenue.
• Conduct space assessment on all campuses including Southampton and propose service and capital improvement with specific ROI.
• Assess current and potential operating systems for event management.
• Create tiered space usage model with dedicated conference space, shared space, and open self-scheduled space that clearly designated student space and other restrictions. Review various building strategies including Wang Center occupancy.

Objective

The working group will develop a plan of action to establish a comprehensive conference services office and events strategy that optimizes internal efficiencies and external revenues, supporting the campus mission and enhancing the SBU community.

Recommended Timeline

Develop and prioritize opportunities with a plan to present recommendations to the Optimizing Campus Cultural, Athletic, and Facilities Resources Task Force by late March.

Leadership

Task Force Co-Chairs: Van Sullivan **, Diana Hannan **