Schedule of Events

6 p.m. - 9 p.m. Eastern
Low Memorial Library

Join fellow Columbia Engineering alumni for a special dinner to kick off Columbia Reunion 2025, where the Columbia Engineering Alumni Association will bestow the School's most distinguished medals.

6:00 PM: Reception in Faculty Room

7:00 PM: Dinner in Low Rotunda

If you are interested in purchasing a table, please reach out to A.J. Vervoort, Senior Associate Director of Alumni Relations, at [email protected].

Kick off Columbia Reunion 2025 with a special gathering for Columbia College, Barnard College, and Columbia Engineering classmates! Start the weekend’s celebrations with great company, good drinks, food and Columbia spirit!

Class of 1980 Welcome Reception Isla & Co., 25th W 38th St | 5:30 p.m. - 7:30 p.m.

Class of 1985 Welcome Reception V&T, 1024 Amsterdam Ave | 5:30 p.m. - 7:30 p.m. | V&T

Class of 1990 Welcome Reception  Amity Hall, 982 Amsterdam Ave | 5:30 p.m. - 7:30 p.m. 

Class of 1995 Welcome Reception The Expat, 64 Tiemann Pl | 5:30 - 7:30 p.m.

Class of 2000 Welcome Reception 15 Hudson Yards | 6:30 - 9:20 p.m.

Class of 2010 Welcome Reception Bird in Hand NYC, 3569 Broadway | 7 - 9 p.m.

10 a.m. - 11 a.m. 
Rare Book Library, Butler Library

Explore the history of Columbia’s Judaica collection with Norman E. Alexander Librarian for Jewish Studies Michelle Margolis. Delve into the archives in honor of the 75th anniversary of the Institute for Israel and Jewish Studies.

10 a.m. – 11:30 a.m.
Alfred Lerner Hall, Jed D. Satow Room, 5th Floor

Join a discussion on the college search process, highly selective admissions, and the changing higher education landscape.
 

11 a.m. - 11:30 a.m.
Alfred Lerner Hall, Room 555

The lecture explores how jazz offers valuable lessons that extend far beyond music performance. It examines how jazz musicians use improvisation to create their art and how these improvisatory processes can translate into daily life, enriching our experiences. Additionally, it highlights how jazz fosters creativity, enhances interpersonal interactions and strengthens survival skills. Ultimately, jazz is a powerful strategic model for resilience.
 

10:50 a.m. - 1 p.m. 
The Museum of Modern Art, 11 W 53rd St

Experience the Museum of Modern Art like never before! Take a guided tour through the Collection 1950-70s. 

11 a.m. - 12 p.m. 
Meet in the courtyard outside Mudd Building by Le Marteleur

Join us for a tour of the Columbia Plasma Physics Laboratory to learn about the nascent fusion industry and experience the cutting edge of this exciting clean energy technology. Tours will run on a rolling basis between 11 am and 12 pm, and you’re welcome to arrive at any time during that window. Each tour lasts approximately 20 minutes, and groups will be limited to a maximum of 15 people at a time.

11 a.m. - 12 p.m. Eastern
The Cathedral Church of St. John the Divine, 1047 Amsterdam Ave

Climb more than 124 feet on this adventurous tour that includes spiral staircases to get to the top of the world’s largest cathedral. Hear the stories of the stained-glass windows and sculptures, and study the cathedral’s grand architecture.

11 a.m. - 12 p.m.
Butler Library, Room 523

For 270 years, Columbia students have followed a similar routine: study, eat, sleep, repeat. With the University Archives staff as your guide, discover (or revisit) the everyday experiences of Columbia students at the three campuses: Park Place, 49th Street and Morningside Heights. We will explore how and where Columbians studied, what their dining options were and what kind of accommodations were available.

11 a.m. - 12:30 p.m.
Alfred Lerner Hall, Roone Arledge Cinema, 2nd Floor

This lively panel features alumni from the 1990s who have returned to the classroom, this time as educators. Hear their reflections on how teaching compares to learning, what’s changed (and what hasn’t) through the decades and how today’s students stack up the panelists’ former selves. A nostalgic and insightful look at education through the eyes of those who’ve seen both sides.

1 p.m. - 2:30 p.m. Eastern
Davis Auditorium, CESPR

Quantum computing has been making splashy headlines. Srivani Family Associate Professor of Computer Science Henry Yuen will break down and share some scientific perspectives on the pace of advancement of quantum computing, its promises, and the many things we still don't know about it.

Please note: there is no pre-registration required to attend this event. 

1 p.m. - 2:30 p.m.
Alfred Lerner Hall, Wang Pavilion, Lower Level

Jean-Jacques Rousseau’s relationship to the French Revolution has obsessed scholars and political actors since 1789. For some, the self-styled citizen of Geneva heralded the dawn of a new age of freedom. For others, his pernicious influence led directly to the horrors of totalitarianism in the 20th century. This lecture offers a reading of Rousseau in dialogue with interlocutors known to students of Contemporary Civilization, from Augustine of Hippo to Frantz Fanon, to challenge this belief.

1 p.m. - 2:30 p.m.
Alfred Lerner Hall, Room 555

Dante’s Divine Comedy is arguably the most influential work of medieval vernacular literature in the European Middle Ages. Without fully realizing it, modern Christianity, and even popular culture, are heavily reliant on Dante for their understandings and depictions of Hell, as well as for their sense of how divine justice might work to punish sin. But it’s important to remember that Dante wasn’t blindly following contemporary theology; he was rethinking, reinventing and reimagining baseline Christian beliefs. If you read the Inferno closely, you find a vision of God and a vision of Hell that are radical, shocking and far more critical of the idea of divine justice than we might imagine.

2 p.m. - 3 p.m. Eastern
The Cathedral Church of St. John the Divine, 1047 Amsterdam Ave

Climb more than 124 feet on this adventurous tour that includes spiral staircases to get to the top of the world’s largest cathedral. Hear the stories of the stained-glass windows and sculptures, and study the cathedral’s grand architecture.

2 p.m. - 3 p.m. Eastern
Meet at Alma Mater Statue

2 p.m. - 3:15 p.m. Eastern
David Geffen Hall at Lincoln Center, 10 Lincoln Center Plaza

The new Lincoln Center Tour provides a behind-the-scenes perspective of the past and present of Lincoln Center. During 75-minute, weekday guided tours, guests will learn about Lincoln Center’s history; explore the iconic arts organizations that call Lincoln Center home; and experience our vibrant campus the way only artists and staff do.

2 p.m. - 3:30 p.m. 
The Kraft Center for Jewish Student Life, 606 West 115th Street

Join Columbia/Barnard Hillel for a warm and welcoming Jewish Life Alumni Reception. Reconnect with fellow alumni, reminisce about your time on campus and hear about the vibrant Jewish life thriving at Columbia and Barnard today.

2 p.m. - 3:30 p.m. 
The Museum of the City of New York, 1220 5th Ave

Explore the Museum of the City of New York with a private tour. "New York at its Core" captures the human energy that drove New York to become a city like no other.  Through almost 450 historic objects and images, many from the Museum’s rich collection, as well as contemporary video, photography, and interactive digital experiences.

3 p.m. - 4 p.m.
Meet at Alma Mater Statue

This event has been cancelled.

3 p.m. - 4:30 p.m.
Alfred Lerner Hall, Wang Pavilion, Lower Level

Frank Lloyd Wright has been a longstanding component of the Art Humanities syllabus. This lecture interprets anew a well-known building by Wright, the Larkin Administration Building in Buffalo, N.Y., by closely examining a little-known aspect of its design: its built-in technologies to process information. This lecture hopes to offer an architectural account of the history of the contemporary regime of “big data” by arguing that the building’s proto-database was, first and foremost, a moral technology that was predicated on managing networks of trust.
 

3 p.m. - 4:30 p.m.
Alfred Lerner Hall, Room 555

Inspired by philosopher John Dewey’s vision of education, the founders of the Core Curriculum emphasized the continuity between active learning in the classroom and participation in a democratic society. How does that vision continue to guide us more than a century later, and what are the greatest challenges that we face? Drawing on the history and philosophical underpinnings of the Core Curriculum, as well as works and ideas from its syllabi, this lecture will explore the civic purpose of universities.
 

3 p.m. - 4:30 p.m.
Columbia Alumni Center, Room 804, 622 W 113th St

We all have beliefs that guide the understanding of ourselves and the world around us but can also limit that understanding. Zen teacher Shunryu Suzuki’s quote, “In the Beginner’s Mind there are many possibilities, in the expert’s mind there are few,” advocates for an approach to life that is open to endless possibilities, free from preconceived notions or biases. Join Columbia College Young Alumni and Dean Emeritus of Columbia College and professor of chemistry, James J. Valentini for a discussion on self-awareness, intellectual humility and the Beginner’s Mind. 

Please note that this event is open to Columbia College young alumni (2015 - 2025). Register via Eventbrite.
 

4 p.m. - 6 p.m. 
Alfred Lerner Hall, Jed D. Satow Room, 5th Floor

Gather with fellow Engineering alumni to celebrate the school! Enjoy light bites and refreshments, connect with your classmates and meet alumni from other decades, and join in celebrating the classes of 1975 and 2000 on their golden and silver anniversaries.

4 p.m. - 6 p.m.
Alfred Lerner Hall, Room 306 (New Location)

DDC alumni, friends and former staff are invited to this all-class celebration to reminisce, reconnect and renew their involvement with the DDC.

5 p.m. - 6 p.m.
Columbia Columbia Center, King's Conference Room, 622 W 113th St

Join the Class of 2015 Reunion Committee and members of the Class of 1975 for this roundtable discussion. Fellow alumni will discuss how we move forward as a community and engage with the current campus climate. This event is exclusively for our Young Alumni from the Classes of 2015–25. Space is limited, so please register early via Eventbrite. 

7 p.m. - 9 p.m. 
Miller Theatre

The Columbia School of General Studies has long been home to some of the world's leading performing artists. Guests are invited to join a thrilling evening of live dance and music performances by talented Columbia alumni and students. Performances will be followed by Q&A and a dessert reception.

7:30 p.m. - 12 a.m. 
Chelsea Piers - Pier Sixty, 60 Chelsea Piers

Enjoy dinner, drinks and dancing with Columbia College, Columbia Engineering, Columbia General Studies, and Barnard College classmates and friends as the sun sets at Pier Sixty, one of Manhattan’s most spectacular waterfront venues!

8 p.m. - 10 p.m. 
Kraft Center for Jewish Student Life, 606 West 115th Street 

Every week, hundreds of students come together at the Kraft Family Center for Jewish Student Life for Shabbat dinner. Share in this joyous Shabbat experience by joining fellow alumni from Columbia College, Columbia Engineering, the School of General Studies and Barnard College for a festive family-style dinner. Alumni families are welcome too!

9 a.m. - 10:30 a.m. 
Alfred Lerner Hall, Room 555

All alumni are invited to start the day with inspiration and camaraderie at a special breakfast! Get a glimpse into the latest developments at Columbia Engineering with Dean Shih-Fu Chang, share in the excitement of what’s to come, and join in a celebratory toast to the Classes of 1975 and 2000 on their golden and silver anniversaries.

10:30 a.m. - 11:30 a.m.  
Alfred Lerner Hall, Roone Arledge Auditorium, 1st Floor

All alumni are invited to start the day with inspiration and camaraderie at a special breakfast! Get a glimpse into the latest developments at Columbia Engineering with Dean Shih-Fu Chang, share in the excitement of what’s to come, and join in a celebratory toast to the Classes of 1975 and 2000 on their golden and silver anniversaries.

12:30 p.m. - 2 p.m. 
South Lawn

It’s time to catch up with friends from Columbia College, Columbia Engineering, ColumbiaGeneral Studies and Barnard College! This al fresco buffet lunch on South Lawn will offer a wide array of food and beverages. Families are welcome!

1 p.m. - 2:30 p.m. 
Alfred Lerner Hall, Room 555

Presented by the Asian Columbia Alumni Association, Black Alumni Council and Latino Alumni Association of Columbia University

2 p.m. - 3:30 p.m.
Davis Auditorium, CESPR

Explore Blockchain protocols with Professor of Computer Science Tim Roughgarden.

Blockchain protocols such as Ethereum and Solana approximate the idealized abstraction of a shared “computer in the sky” that is open access (anyone can install software or interact with already-installed software), runs in plain view, and, in effect, has no owner or operator. This technology can, among other things, enable stronger notions of ownership of digital possessions than we have ever had before. Building the computer in the sky is hard (and scientifically fascinating), and requires the synthesis of multiple disciplines, both within computer science (distributed computing, cryptography, algorithmic game theory) and beyond (mechanism design, macroeconomics, finance, political science).

Please note: no pre-registration required to attend this event. 

2 p.m. - 3:30 p.m.
Alfred Lerner Hall, Jed D. Satow Room, 5th Floor

Join members of the class of 1990 for an inside look at the ever-evolving world of entertainment with a dynamic group of alumni who are making their mark behind the scenes.

2:30 p.m.–3:30 p.m.
WKCR-FM, N.W. Corner of Broadway and West 114th Street

Join alumni from the College, Engineering, Barnard and General Studies.

2:30 p.m. - 4 p.m.
Earl Hall, Room 105

Reconnect with Community Impact alumni, students, and staff to celebrate shared memories, meaningful friendships, and the lasting impact of service that helped shape your Columbia journey.

3 p.m.– 4 p.m.
Alfred Lerner Hall, Wang Pavilion, Lower Level

Reconnect with fellow alumni from Columbia’s vocal, instrumental and theater groups and enjoy refreshments and light food. All alumni and guests are invited.

3 p.m. - 4:15 p.m.
Alfred Lerner Hall, Roone Arledge Cinema

What will education look like a decade from now? As AI reshapes industries and everyday life, this panel explores how emerging technologies could transform the classroom, the curriculum, and the student experience by 2035. Join us for a forward-thinking discussion on how we prepare the next generation of learners in a world increasingly influenced by artificial intelligence.

Panelists:
Vishal Misra, Professor of Computer Science; Vice Dean of Computing and Artificial Intelligence, Columbia Engineering
Matthew Connelly '90CC, Professor of History; Vice Dean for AI Initiatives in the Faculty of Arts & Sciences
 

3 p.m. - 4 p.m.
Alfred Lerner Hall, Room 555

This reception will honor members of the 1754 Society and give attendees the opportunity to learn more about planned gifts to Columbia.

3 p.m. - 4 p.m.
Faculty House, Presidential Ballroom, 3rd Floor

Join us for a special panel celebrating this year’s Lion’s Pride Honors recipients — exceptional young alumni who are creating meaningful change in their communities and beyond. Selected every three years, these honorees exemplify the values of leadership, service, and impact. Don’t miss this inspiring conversation highlighting the powerful ways our recent graduates are shaping the world. The Lion’s Pride Honors is a collaboration between Columbia College Young Alumni and Columbia College Today.

3:30 p.m. - 5 p.m.
Center for Veteran Transition and Integration (CVTI), Kent Hall, Room 205

Gather with veteran alumni and students from all generations and all Columbia schools to connect, network, and learn about the University's support for veterans, including those provided by the Center for Veteran Transition and Integration (CVTI). Appetizers, beer, and wine will be served.

4 p.m. - 5 p.m.
Barnard College, The Diana Center, Millicent Carey McIntosh
Student Dining Room, 2nd Fl., 3009 Broadway

Join alumni from the College, Engineering, Barnard and General Studies.

4 p.m. - 5:30 p.m.
Faculty House, Garden Room, 1st Floor

Join fellow Columbia Engineering graduate program alumni and Engineering leadership for an opportunity to catch up with friends and expand your network.

2 p.m. - 3 p.m. (New Time)
Columbia Alumni Center, King’s Conference Room

4:30 p.m. - 5:45 p.m. Eastern
Faculty House, Seminar Level, 2nd Floor

Join the Society of Columbia Graduates and the deans of Columbia College and Columbia Engineering to recognize this year’s Great Teacher Award recipients. This event costs an additional $25. 

Professor Nicholas Dames, Director of Undergraduate Studies; Theodore Kahan Professor of Humanities
Columbia College Recipient

Professor Hardeep Johar, Senior Lecturer in the Discipline of Industrial Engineering and Operations Research
Columbia Engineering Recipient

6:30 p.m. - 9 p.m. Eastern
Locations listed below

Gather with classmates from Columbia College and Columbia Engineering to connect over drinks and dinner to close out the reunion. Arrive by 6:30 p.m. to join your class photo.

Class of 1975 – Pulitzer Hall (Journalism), Pulitzer Lecture Hall
Class of 1980 – Alfred Lerner Hall, Room 555
Class of 1985 – Casa Italiana, 1161 Amsterdam Ave., Il Teatro, 2nd Fl.
Class of 1990 – Faculty House, Skyline Level, 4th Floor
Class of 1995 – Faculty House, Presidential Ballroom, 3rd Floor
Class of 2000 – Low Memorial Library, Rotunda
Class of 2005 – Pulitzer Hall (Journalism), Pulitzer World Room
Class of 2010 – Low Memorial Library, Faculty Room
Class of 2015 – South Lawn, West Tent
Class of 2020 – South Lawn, East Tent
Golden Lions – The Kraft Center for Jewish Student Life, 606 W. 115th St., 6th Floor

9:30 p.m. - 12 a.m. 
Low Plaza

Closeout Columbia Reunion 2025 with a bang at this annual party, complete with a live band, dessert, and champagne. Lounge on the Steps under the gaze of Alma Mater and take part in one of Columbia’s most special evenings of the year.