The Human Factor is far from your typical college lecture. It’s a communal search for what makes us human — and how we can use our insight, creativity and ethical thinking to help shape a better future.

Hosted by NC State’s College of Humanities and Social Sciences, the series brings together influential voices to explore a critical topic — one we continue to examine throughout the year through ancillary programming that extends the conversation.

By becoming a sponsor, you’ll help us spark dialogue, inspire change, and connect thousands of students, alumni and community members through experiences that place humanity at the center of science, technology and social innovation.

Why Sponsor?

Our partners and supporters play a vital role in making these conversations accessible while aligning their name or brand with thoughtful leadership, creativity and civic impact. 

As a sponsor, you’ll gain:

• Meaningful alignment with a respected, forward-thinking university platform.
• Connection to a highly engaged audience and community of students, alumni, faculty and regional leaders.
• Association with timely, relevant conversations shaping the future of society and innovation.
• Exclusive, high-touch experiences that go beyond traditional visibility.

A Proven, High-Impact Experience

As a sponsor, you’ll also join a rapidly growing series that’s already popular with audiences on campus and beyond. Our inaugural 2025 season, “Food and the Future,” featuring Alton Brown, demonstrated the powerful reach of the series: 

• Sold out in six days, welcoming 727 attendees — the largest CHASS event audience ever.
• 95%+ audience satisfaction, with attendees rating the experience 4 or 5 out of 5.
• A dynamic VIP experience featuring immersive, themed programming.
• 250,000+ high-quality impressions across digital, campus and community channels.

Beyond the Stage: Year-Round Engagement

Each season’s theme continues throughout the academic year through curated programming that expands the conversation across campus and into the community — ensuring sustained visibility and deeper engagement for our partners and supporters.

Examples from our inaugural year included:

• A service week where 120+ volunteers packaged more than 10,000 meals
• Alumni panels featuring industry leaders and entrepreneurs
• “Bite-Sized Lectures” led by faculty and students on topics ranging from sustainability to food recovery

This ongoing engagement ensures sponsors are connected to a sustained narrative — not just one evening.

2026-27 Season Preview

Sept. 18, 2026 | Stewart Theatre

Featured Speaker: Jesse Eisenberg

Actor, writer and Academy Award–nominated filmmaker Jesse Eisenberg brings sharp insight, humor and emotional depth to conversations about creativity, storytelling and modern life.

Season Theme: Preserving Human Stories

In an era shaped by algorithms, polarization and constant change, this season explores how human stories are created, shared and protected — and why lived experience matters more than ever.

The premier event experience will include: 

• A sponsor meet-and-greet with the featured speaker
• A VIP reception for sponsors and VIP guests
• The signature Human Factor main-stage program

Sponsorship Opportunities

Presenting Sponsor 

• Exclusive season-long presenting rights: “The Human Factor presented by [Your Name/Organization]” — integrated across all events, programs and communications throughout the year
• Premier visibility and recognition across the full series, including marketing campaigns, digital content, ancillary programming and printed materials
• Premium access to the full Human Factor experience
  • 16 VIP tickets to the main event
  • 16 speaker meet-and-greet passes
• Premier parking with up to 10 designated spots
• Speaking opportunity during the VIP reception
• Verbal recognition during both the VIP reception and main program
• Private dinner with the dean for up to 10 guests
• Commemorative item (up to $250 value)

Thought Partner

• Name or logo placement in main event promotions and printed program
• Access to a curated, high-impact event experience
  • 4 VIP tickets to the main event
  • 4 speaker meet-and-greet passes
• Verbal recognition during the Human Factor VIP reception
• Commemorative item (up to $100 value)

Become a Sponsor

Ready to join us? Make your commitment by contacting our development office at chassdevelopment@ncsu.edu. One of our team members will be in touch!