opportunities when they might not be able to otherwise. Our hope is to continue to grow this fund so groups can bring even bigger events to campus.”
To get an event approved by the Major Events Fund, a student group must present its idea to a panel of five judges: Bonsall, Harris, and three students with experience bringing programs to campus. Currently the committee consists of a member of Radio X, First Aid Productions and a student with no particular group affiliation.
Bonsall said that he is working to solidify the members of the committee.
“Ideally, we want students (on the committee) who have a good knowledge of the major entertainment scene and can objectively evaluate the potential for a particular program to be successful financially – which in essence means that students, and in most cases the community, will support it,” Bonsall said.
The request will be considered within 48 hours after determining three factors: the ability of the sponsoring organization to put on the event, the access the sponsoring organization has to alternative funds and the ability of the proposed entertainer to sell tickets.
The committee approved an NAE request for $55,000 to bring popular rock band “Boys Like Girls” to Northern – $35,000 for the band and $20,000 for sound lights, stagehands, security, hospitality and other show expenses. But the band declined the offer because the date did not line up with it’s touring schedule.
The Major Events Fund would have covered any cost not recouped by ticket sales for the event. The rest of the cost would have been provided by other sources.
Campus groups that would like to take advantage of the Major Events Fund can contact Bonsall at 227-2439 or [email protected], or Harris at 227-6543 or [email protected].
