Case Story:
Full Sail University
October 15, 2021
Dinner in Denim was an intentional gathering held at Full Sail University in the fall of 2021. The purpose was to foster connection and spark conversation among inspiring individuals from across the organization.
Crisis of Culture
Prior to the pandemic, Full Sail University was thriving. Its culture could be described as vibrant and its employees as creative, collaborative, and compassionate. When the vast majority of the workforce went remote in the spring of 2020, Full Sail, like many organizations worldwide, experienced a collapse of community.
Over a year later, the challenge still facing employees was how to stay present with their work and each other, while acknowledging the unprecedented nature of the times and the ever growing uncertainty about what was next.
Each guest was asked to bring…
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A Friend
The guest list was kept intentionally small to save room for new friends. Each guest was asked to bring a Full Sail colleague who they believed would enjoy and connect with the purpose of the event. The hope was to bring people out of their silos and into community. -
A Meal
This event took place in the COVID-recovery era. Guests were asked to bring a meal for themselves and a story to share about why they brought it. Guests were encouraged to bring a dish that had personal significance to them. -
A Place Setting
In an effort to reduce the environmental footprint of this event, guests were asked to bring their own place setting. Plates, flatware, glasses… whatever they needed to enjoy their meal. Placemats, napkins, and drinks were provided.
Why Denim?
Denim is the fabric of the people.
It was a great equalizer.
Whether a senior manager or a front-line educator, denim was an item of clothing that most guests had in their closets.
It was authentic and accessible, which is how guests were invited to show up.
How the night unfolded…
A loose program designed to help structure the conversation. Each segment offered a few questions as a starting point.
The Welcome
Guests introduced themselves and the inspiring colleague they invited.
The Warp
Thoughts on receiving the invitation to being present with the group?
In an era of challenges, what’s changed?
How are you and those you work among doing?
The Weft
Describe your experience of sharing and hearing from others.
What themes and takeaways did you note?
How do you find and generate inspiration — both to help others and keep yourself aloft?
The Weave
Reflections on the last round and discoveries thus far.
What do you have to be brave about right now?
What support do you need?
The Wrap
Guests were invited to share a reflection or appreciation on the evening.
Immediate:
Expressed gratitude for moment of real presence.
New friendships and cross-departmental connections made.
Event planned for 2 hours lasted for 6.
Ongoing:
Attributed as critical turning point for post-pandemic reengagement.
Guests planning spin-off events.
Group continues to support each other personally and professionally.
Institutional:
Referenced as aspiration in management meetings.
Informed changes to new employee orientation.
Inspired new approach to tenured employee pinning ceremony.
Event Impact
