MOST OUTSTANDING Social Event NOMINEE
Vietnamese Student Organization at the University of Louisiana at Lafayette (VSOUL)
Golden Lotus
Provide a detailed description of the event and the population it served. Details MUST include: date of event, number of participants, program purpose (goals, objectives, etc.), use of resources (finances, community support, etc.), and marketing techniques.
VSOUL's Golden Lotus event took place on April 4, 2025, in the UL Lafayette Ballroom, and had over 40 attendees. The event is a formal, gambling-themed poker night and is aimed to build community, celebrate the closing of the 24-25 org year, and provide a fun, immersive experience. Supported by club funds and a sponsor for catering, resources were allocated toward decor, prizes, and refreshments. Marketing strategies included social media promotion, word-of-mouth outreach, and being an already well-known event by other VSAs. Golden Lotus had a strong turnout and positive engagement from students and the local community.
What efforts were used to motivate and involve the organization's members?
The event's unique formal theme sparked excitement among members. There was also open communication through group chats in case anyone had any questions.
Did the organization overcome any challenges that arose while planning and implementing the event? How?
One major challenge VSOUL faced was coordinating logistics for a formal event in the UL Lafayette Ballroom, including securing the venue, arranging furniture for poker tables, and ensuring everything met campus regulations. The team tackled this by starting preparations early, staying in close communication with university event staff, and assigning clear responsibilities to committee leads.
