“An Evening With” – A Student-Driven Experience
Every year, the Student Activities Board (SAB) brings a highly anticipated guest to campus through its signature event, "An Evening with…" This event has become a cornerstone of student engagement at UIC, offering students an opportunity to hear from influential figures in entertainment, media, and beyond.
But what goes into planning such a high-profile event? How are speakers selected, and how does this evening impact the UIC community? We spoke with Vanessa Velazquez, Assistant Director for the Center for Student Involvement, and SAB President Alize Ramirez to get an inside look.
Selecting the Right Speaker
The process of choosing a celebrity guest is led by the SAB Trending Committee, a team of students dedicated to identifying figures making waves in the media at the time of selection. Their goal? To bring in someone who resonates with the student body and makes an impact on campus culture.
For example, Storm Reid was invited shortly after winning an Emmy for Outstanding Guest Actress last year, and Jennette McCurdy spoke at UIC following the release of her bestselling memoir. These selections reflect the committee’s efforts to stay relevant and bring speakers who will inspire meaningful conversations on campus.
The Event’s Influence on Student Engagement
Year after year, "An Evening with…" draws one of the largest student turnouts of any SAB event. The overwhelming demand leads to a packed SCE Illinois Room, “In previous years, we offered livestream to accommodate a large waitlist and COVID protocols. Additionally, we have looked at amplifying our VIP experience in recent years by providing an artist meet-and-greet and front-row seating during the show.” said Ramirez.
Beyond the logistics, the event fosters student engagement at UIC. It offers a platform for students to connect with peers, engage in thought-provoking discussions, and gain insights from accomplished professionals across industries. "This event is important for the UIC student community because it provides a unique opportunity for students to gain insights from an experienced speaker, engage in meaningful discussions, and connect classroom learning to real-world applications," Ramirez emphasized.
Hearing firsthand experiences from well-known figures helps students bridge the gap between classroom learning and real world application, inspiring them to pursue their career goals while obtaining the skills to be real world ready.
Memorable Moments & Takeaways
Each guest speaker brings a unique perspective, making every installment of “An Evening with…” a memorable experience. Velaquez shared that Jennette McCurdy’s visit was a highlight because of her fame and the deeply personal themes she discussed—mental health, the pressures of performing, and navigating personal growth. These conversations have a lasting impact on students, encouraging self-awareness and inspiring resilience.
The lessons students take away from these events vary, depending on the speaker’s background and message. However, they all share a common thread—empowerment, motivation, and the encouragement to explore new opportunities.
A Student-Driven Experience
What makes "An Evening with…" truly special is that student voices in SAB shape every aspect of the event. From selecting the speaker to curating interview questions and designing the VIP experience, students actively ensure the event is engaging and relevant.
A Night to Remember
Last night’s "An Evening with…" lived up to the excitement, drawing a full house as students eagerly gathered to hear from this year’s guest, Quenlin Blackwell. The energy in the room was electric as the speaker took the stage, sharing personal anecdotes, career advice, and reflections on navigating success in the digital age. Laughter, inspiration, and reflection filled the evening as the guest engaged in a candid discussion with the audience.
As the event wrapped up, students left the venue buzzing with inspiration, many expressing how the conversation encouraged them to confidently pursue their passions. Another successful "An Evening with…" had come and gone, leaving lasting memories and valuable lessons for the UIC community. Until next year!