04/05/2020
Audio Visual Services, LLC
New England Audio Visual
2077 Elmwood Avenue
Warwick, RI 02888
401-781-9000
Fax 401-781-9977
Dear Governor Raimondo,
Thank you very much for all that you are doing for all Rhode Islanders during this COVID-19 outbreak. My wife and I joined our two children in watching your 1 p.m. press conference on Thursday, April 2. Your caring and nurturing tone in addressing the many questions from students across the state was greatly appreciated. I hope all Rhode Islanders feel the same way as I about how you have been handling this crisis.
One particular student question caught my attention. It was the question regarding the cancellation of proms and graduation from Macy, a grade 11 student from North Smithfield High School and you taking a moment to speak directly to the Class of 2020:
“I’m really sorry. This is not the senior year you hoped for. But I promise you this. We are going to find new ways to celebrate you and your accomplishments…send in your ideas.”
Your sincere response prompted an idea that I believe could facilitate a graduation ceremony and still adhere to your requirements for social distancing—a possible solution that could provide a ceremony that graduates will remember in a positive way for the rest of their lives.
New England Audio Visual, a Rhode Island based event production company proposes a combination live and virtual graduation format designed to respect the need for social distancing.
New England Audio Visual has been an experienced provider of audiovisual and staging production for several Rhode Island schools including: Lincoln High School, all Warwick high schools, St Andrews, University of Rhode Island, Cumberland High School, and Ponagansett High School. We are a nationally recognized provider of audiovisual services with clients in all fifty states.
New England Audio Visual proposes a “OUTDOOR DRIVE-IN THEATER GRADUATION”
Graduation Event Description
(just an example—lots of flexibility/options in technology and logistics):
The venue would be similar to that of the old outdoor drive-in movie theaters. A large screen would be set up with a robust sound system. Attendees would remain in their vehicles. In addition to the sound system, we would provide FM transmission of the event for cars to tune in with their radios to listen to the ceremony. A large stage would be erected with enough room for dignitaries to be seated far enough apart—similar to the Governor’s press conferences. A podium would be provided for speeches.
The entire ceremony would be video recorded and streamed live. Speeches from dignitaries, if not present, could be pre-recorded and streamed at the ceremony. The graduation could be streamed to the school’s page so that friends and relatives could participate no matter where they are at (e.g., out of state).
It is envisioned that when a graduate’s name is announced, dressed in cap and gown, their picture would be projected on the screen(s) and/or graduates could exit their car to receive recognition. The diplomas could be mailed home.
Although the event could be handled at any time during the day, an evening graduation time would offer the best projection quality.
Securing a large open space for parking by the school would be required.
New England Audio Visual has enough equipment and technicians to manage multiple events on the same day.
If this event proposal is of interest or have any questions, please contact me:
Jeffrey T. Butler,
Director/Owner,
New England Audio Visual
(401) 781-9000
