Where Historic Ivy League Charm Meets Modern NYC Innovation
A Venue for Every Vision: From Historic Halls to Modern Spaces
Filming at TC
Seamless Execution in the Heart of Manhattan
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Meeting & Event Spaces
Scroll below to learn more about or meeting and event spaces.
Smith Learning Theater (SLT)
Russell Building - 4th Floor
Operated by TC’s Digital Futures Institute team, the Smith Learning Theater is an adaptable venue built to scale for gatherings from 50 to 200 guests. Thanks to its modular design, full range of mobile furnishings, and complete broadcast tech, the space easily transitions from seated banquets and interactive workshops to large conferences and receptions.
Milbank Chapel
Built in 1897, Milbank Chapel is one of Teachers College’s most treasured historic spaces, offering a warm and majestic backdrop for lectures, performances, and ceremonies for gatherings up to 180. Located in Zankel Hall—TC’s main hub—this beautiful venue features stunning stained glass, rich woodwork, a grand piano and exceptional acoustics.
Joyce Berger Cowin Auditorium
The Joyce Berger Cowin Auditorium has long served as a platform for impactful discussions on the defining issues of our era. Located in the historic 1899 Horace Mann Hall, the venue pairs historic prestige with robust production features—including a built-in stage, an upright piano, and two private backstage VIP restrooms for gatherings for up to 587 guests.
The Trustees Room - ZB109
Located on the lobby level of Zankel Hall near TC’s main entrance, this historic venue anchors the College’s original 1887 building. Rich wood paneling, a classic fireplace, and scenic views overlooking the Russell Courtyard create an inviting, professional backdrop for smaller high-level gatherings
Grace Dodge Dining Hall
The Tudor Room - GDH271
Opened in 1911 as a historic "dining room laboratory" for TC’s household arts programs, this Arts and Crafts–style landmark features dark wood paneling, high exposed ceiling beams, Grueby ceramic tiles, and a permanent gallery of Teachers College’s historic oil portraits. Restored in 2022, the venue provides a warm, distinguished backdrop for special academic gatherings, lectures, and receptions.
Everett Lounge
Located on the lobby level of Zankel Hall—Teachers College’s flagship building constructed in 1887—Everett Lounge blends classic character with modern functionality. Recently renovated to showcase restored original features like its original oversized fireplace and floor-to-ceiling windows looking out onto 120th Street, this light-filled room offers a versatile, welcoming environment right near TC's main campus entrance for gathers from 80 - 90 guests.
Russell Courtyard
Package Offerings
Host Your Graduation at Teachers College
Celebrate your graduates in the historic Joyce Berger Cowin Auditorium. Located in Horace Mann Hall on the vibrant campus of Teachers College, Columbia University, this state-of-the-art auditorium combines rich history with cutting-edge production capabilities—offering an elegant, hassle-free backdrop for your graduation ceremony.
Venue Highlights
- Historic Character, Contemporary Tech: Located in Horace Mann Hall on Broadway between 120th and 121st Streets, Cowin Auditorium combines historic character with modern production capabilities.
- Architecture & History: Built in 1899 and designed by Howells & Stokes, Horace Mann Hall features distinctive Tudor Revival architecture with Gothic elements, orange brickwork, and an ornate cupola.
- Seating Capacity: Accommodates 587 total guests across two levels:
- Lower Level: 341 seats
- Mezzanine Level: 246 seats
- Dedicated wheelchair-accessible seating areas available.
- Prime NYC Location: Conveniently located on Broadway (between 120th and 121st Streets) featuring a private dedicated entrance, direct subway access, close proximity to major highways, and two neighboring pay-parking garages.
- Availability Window: Available for weekday and weekend bookings during December/January and May/June.
Ceremony Packages
Our comprehensive rental package gives you everything you need to execute a seamless, memorable event.
Spaces & Access Included
- Cowin Auditorium Access: 5.5 hours total on event day.
- Rehearsal Time: 2-hour advance rehearsal scheduled 1–2 weeks prior to your event.
- 2 Dedicated Auxiliary Classrooms (5.5 Hours):
- 1 standard seated classroom.
- 1 flexible empty classroom (ideal for faculty robing, photography, or staging).
- Mezzanine Line-up Area: Reserved space for 5.5 hours to assemble and organize your graduates.
Audio, Visual & Production Services
- Dedicated On-Site Technician: 7.5 hours total support (2 hours for rehearsal + 5.5 hours on event day).
- Audio & Microphones: Sound system, 2 podium mics (main speaker + name reader), and 4 handheld mics for musical performances.
- Displays: High-definition projector and screen for slideshows or presentations.
- Performance Essentials: Upright piano and music stands.
Stage & Venue Furnishings
- Podia: 1 podium pre-staged on the main platform.
- Diploma Distribution: 1 covered (or uncovered) 6-foot staging table.
- Welcome & Registration: Up to two 6-foot desks set up in the Horace Mann lobby upon request.
- Speaker & Staff Amenities: Dedicated water tables on stage, plus side tables and seating for event staff upon request.
On-Site Support & Facilities
- Event Coordinator: a seasoned member of the TC College Events team will be on hand to coordinate all internal service providers to ensure a smooth and successful ceremony.
- Public Safety: Dedicated staffing for the main Broadway entrance.
- Custodial Services: Comprehensive pre- and post-event cleaning, trash removal, and bathroom management.
- Climate Control: Full heating/air conditioning in Cowin Auditorium.
- Accessibility: Fully accessible seating configurations for guests using wheelchairs.
Event Day Schedules
We offer two standard, streamlined time blocks to ensure your ceremony runs smoothly from load-in to departure.
|
Ceremony Run of Show |
Morning Schedule |
Evening Schedule |
|
Client Arrival & Setup |
8:30 a.m. |
3:30 p.m. |
|
Doors Open (Guests & Graduates) |
10:00 a.m. |
5:00 p.m. |
|
Ceremony Commences |
11:00 a.m. |
6:00 p.m. |
|
Ceremony Concludes |
1:00 p.m. |
8:00 p.m. |
|
Load-Out & Guest Departure |
2:00 p.m. |
9:00 p.m. |
Note: A dedicated 2-hour facilities transition window (2:00 p.m. – 4:00 p.m.) follows every morning ceremony for cleaning, sanitation, and space resetting.
Included Amenities & Services
- Advance Shipping: Deliver a moderate amount of event supplies directly to campus ahead of your ceremony date. Large items such as wardrobe boxes, & musical instruments must be delivered the day of the event.
- Custom Signage: Space reserved to hang welcome banners, directional signage, and podium branding.
- Decor Allowance: Welcome to bring in floral arrangements or balloon displays (placement guidelines apply).
- Photography Flexibility: Option to utilize TC’s official staff photographer or bring your own preferred external photography vendor.
Add-Ons & Policies
Catering & Receptions
- Official Catering Partner: All food and beverage must be provided through TC Catering Services (contracted and billed directly).
- Auditorium Guidelines: Food and drink are strictly prohibited inside Cowin Auditorium (water is provided for stage speakers).
- Reception Spaces: Pre- and post-ceremony reception spaces are available elsewhere on campus for an additional fee.
Optional Add-Ons (available at an additional cost)
- Accessibility Enhancements: Professional CART captioning, external displays, and certified ASL interpreters.
- Media Services: High-definition livestreaming and full video recording of your ceremony.
- Live Performance: Hire talented TC Music Program students or alumni for processional and recessional music.
- Print Services: Conveniently order signage, custom posters, and ceremony programs directly through TC’s Business Services department.
- Additional Furnishings: Additional furniture fixtures and equipment are available on request.
Retreats & Special Events at Teachers College
Host your next leadership, departmental, or faculty retreat in our historic, beautiful, and flexible spaces. Whether you simply need a conveniently located NYC venue or a fully managed experience, our team is here to support your vision. We offer both turnkey venue rentals as well as custom retreat planning segments designed to translate your objectives into impactful, high-value experiences.
Booking Options & Spaces
- Availability: Year-round | Weekdays and Weekends
- Rental Duration: Half-Day (5 hours) or Full-Day (10 hours)
- Included Planning & Logistics:
- 1 complimentary venue tour for all packages
- Advance supply shipping to campus prior to your event
- Dedicated planning meetings included (1 meeting for Packages 1–2; up to 3 meetings for Packages 3–4)
Available Venues
Choose from a variety of distinct spaces tailored to your group size and agenda:
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- Smith Learning Theater: Highly adaptable, tech-enabled collaborative environment
- 5th Floor Maker Studio: Creative space for hands-on workshops and innovation
- GDH 177 / 179: Flexible presentation and breakout spaces
- Smart Classrooms: Fully equipped academic spaces for presentations and seminars
- Everett Lounge: Warm & inviting, relaxed setting for receptions and networking
- Russell Courtyard: Beautiful outdoor space (available for dining and meal breaks only)
Retreat Packages
Select the level of support and programming that best fits your event goals:
|
Package Tier |
What’s Included |
|
Package 1: Essential Space |
• Primary retreat venue access • Full Auxiliary Services support (Tech, Facilities & Public Safety) |
|
Package 2: Space & Dining |
• Primary retreat venue access • Dedicated space for meals & breaks (catering via TC Dining Services) • Full Auxiliary Services support |
|
Package 3: Space, Dining & Team Building |
• Primary retreat venue access • Dedicated space for meals & breaks • 1–2 Hour Custom Maker Experience: Bespoke team-building activity co-developed with the Digital Futures Institute • Full Auxiliary Services support |
|
Package 4: Complete Experiential Retreat |
• Primary retreat venue access • Dedicated space for meals & breaks • 1–2 Hour Custom Maker Experience • TC Faculty Keynote: Tailored talk by a TC faculty member on a mutually agreed-upon topic • Full Auxiliary Services support |
Included Amenities & Services
- Dedicated A/V Technician: On-site support for the entire duration of your event (when technology is required).
- Flexible Inventory: Access to TC’s in-house furniture inventory to customize your room setup.
- Complete Operational Support: Comprehensive tech setup, custodial cleaning before/after, climate control, and dedicated Public Safety staff.
Add-Ons & Policies
Food & Beverage Guidelines
- Exclusive Catering: All food and beverage service is managed directly through TC Catering Services (contracted and billed separately).
Optional Add-Ons (available at an additional cost)
- Accessibility Services: Professional CART captioning, external displays, and certified ASL interpreters.
- Media Production: High-definition livestreaming or event video recording.
- Live Entertainment: Hire talented TC Music Program students or alumni to perform during your event.
- Print & Signage: Order custom event signage, posters, and materials directly through TC’s Business Services department.
Live from Studio B: Podcast & Media Production
Bring your audio and video projects to life in Studio B, our state-of-the-art podcast facility located on the second floor of Macy Hall. Managed by TC’s expert Digital Futures Institute team, Studio B provides top-tier technology, and complete audio/video production support to ensure your message is delivered with studio-quality polish.
Studio Specs & Equipment
Designed for both dynamic discussions and solo recordings:
- Flexible Seating & Audio: Configurable table setups supporting up to 6 studio-grade microphones.
- High-Definition Video Suite: Specialized webcam and camera recording station complete with broadcast-quality camera, lighting, customizable backdrops, and dedicated studio mics.
- Professional On-Site Staff: Every booking includes a dedicated media engineer to manage technical setup, mic levels, and live recording on event day.
Production Packages
We offer tiered production support ranging from raw studio rentals to full post-production editing. (All packages require a 3-hour minimum booking).
|
Package |
What’s Included |
|
Package 1: Express Audio |
• Studio access for up to 6 participants • On-site media engineer for live recording • Raw, uncut audio files delivered post-session |
|
Package 2: Edited Audio |
• Studio access for up to 6 participants • On-site media engineer • Raw audio files + fully edited master audio track with separate tracks for each speaker if requested (includes 2 rounds of client edits; additional rounds billed hourly) |
|
Package 3: Express Audio & Video |
• Studio access for up to 6 participants • On-site media engineer • Raw, uncut audio files + fully edited master audio track (includes 2 rounds of client edits; additional rounds billed hourly) • Raw multi-camera video recording files |
|
Package 4: Full Audio & Video Production |
• Studio access for up to 6 participants • On-site media engineer • Fully edited master audio track (includes 2 rounds of edits additional rounds billed hourly) • Fully edited master video recording (includes 2 rounds of edits; additional rounds billed hourly) |
Included Amenities & Services
- Complimentary Tour: 1 studio tour included with any package.
- Pre-Production Planning Sessions:
- Packages 1 & 2: One 1-hour planning meeting.
- Packages 3 & 4: Up to two 1-hour planning meetings to finalize video framing, branding, and technical goals.
- Expert Post-Production: Editing completed by TC's experienced media engineers to meet your exact project specifications.
Samples of Our Work
Experience the audio and visual quality produced right here in Studio B:
- Audio Sample 1: [Listen Here]
- Audio Sample 2: [Listen Here]
- Video Sample 1: [Watch Here]