The Ollies

Categories
Founder
Project Coordinator
—
Timeline
2019

Problem

At Brandeis University, with a vibrant student body of around 4,000 undergraduates involved in over 200 clubs, student organizations are the heartbeat of campus life. These groups engage in a diverse array of activities, from community farming to cultural exhibitions and advocacy for immigration reform, driving significant change on campus and in the local community. Despite their remarkable efforts, there was no dedicated event to showcase and celebrate these achievements.

Action

In partnership with the Office of Student Activities and drawing inspiration from award ceremonies at other institutions, we devised eight awards to honor the exceptional contributions of students and staff. The categories included Outstanding Leadership, Campus Life and Leadership, RISE Up, Volunteer Service, Unsung Hero, Outstanding Faculty and Staff, Club of the Year, and Event of the Year. Nominations were open to all students, with a cross-functional student committee making the final selections, under the guidance of the Dean of Student Activities.

Response

The initiative was met with enthusiasm, yielding 72 nominations. We orchestrated an "Oscars"-style gala complete with sketch comedy, dance, and spoken word performances, and featuring keynote speeches from the University President and the Dean of Arts and Sciences. This celebratory event not only honored the awardees but also served as a splendid culmination of the academic year, bolstering community spirit and acknowledging the hard work of the student body.