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.

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 

• 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.

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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

• • 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:

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 

• 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.

Inquire Today

Receptions & Social Events at Teachers College

Host your next reception 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

Available Spaces

• Smith Learning Theater
• Everett Lounge
• GDH 177 / 179
• Tudor Room
• Trustee Room
• Russell Courtyard
• Grace Dodge Dining Hall

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 

• 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.

Inquire Today

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).

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.

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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]

Live from Studio A: Video Production

Bring your video projects to life in Studio A, our state-of-the-art video recording facility located on the second floor of Macy Hall. Managed by TC’s expert Digital Futures Institute team. Studio A provides top-tier technology, and complete audio/video production support to ensure your message is delivered with studio-quality polish.

Space Description

• The lecture capture space offers a recording station with a high quality camera, lights, backdrops and a studio microphone, iMac for slides or other materials, and standing desk for adjustable height / comfort standing or sitting.
• The studio space offers a staged area with a wide seamless gray backdrop, lighting grid with professional quality lighting, up to 3 cameras, up to two cardioid xlr microphones, and an optional teleprompter. There are a variety of seating options, including soft gray chairs, mid century office style chairs, directors chairs, and couches as options for interview looks. Limited set dressing is available including shelves, side tables, and a limited set of greenery and office items. Please discuss with us if you’d like to bring your own props or set dressing.

Staffing Description  

• For lecture capture, one of our trained Media Support Associates will assist with recording video, sound and operating Powerpoint and other supporting materials if needed.
• For Studio A productions, our media team members will operate camera, sound, lighting and teleprompter equipment to ensure production quality. All media team members are experienced in operating the professional equipment in our studio. 
• Media producers on our team are experienced in a range of post production tools including Adobe Premiere, After Effects, Adobe Audition and more if you choose to work with us for post production. 

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).

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.

Lecture Capture Package 

• Space to rent for a 4 hour minimum for 1 participant at a time 
  • Greenscreen or neutral background
  • SONY A7sii mirrorless camera setup 
  • Softboxed LED panel lights for even lighting  
  • YETI Blue microphone (Rode PodMic also available)
  • Sound protected space
• Tech staff to manage day of 
• Uncut video file handed off the day of

Studio A Multi-Camera Video Shoot Package 

• Space to rent for a 4 hour minimum for up to 2 participants
• Up to 3 cameras
• SONY A7siii mirrorless cameras
• ARRI Skypanel S60 and S30 lights in ceiling grid and on floor stands for even, professional lighting
• Professional quality hyper-cardioid directional microphones 
• A range of background options include simple gray, color splashes in cool and warm colors. A blue screen is available for a single on-camera participant. 
• Tech staff to manage day of 
• Video = 1 camera operator per camera, teleprompter operator if needed
• Uncut video file handed off the day of

Add-Ons & Policies

Optional Add-Ons 

• Teleprompter
• Captioning service
• Freelancer list available if client wants custom graphic design elements. Simple graphics such as lower thirds or the use of other graphics provided by the client is included in post production rates. 

Inquire Today