A Welcome Message from Laila Maher
Dean of Student and Alumni Affairs
Now more than ever it is crucial for artists to be supported as they pursue their craft. The life of an artist as well as that of a student involves much more than the classroom and the work itself, and this is where the Office of Student Affairs comes in. In addition to guiding new students through the process of transitioning to the School of the Arts, we plan the School-wide orientation, School of the Arts Convocation, and support student groups, events, and activities.
We also play a critical role in connecting School of the Arts students to the larger university and necessary services, and help students navigate many of the central offices including Health Services (which houses the Office of Disability Services, Insurance, Immunization, and Counseling and Psychological Services), Columbia Residential, Public Safety, University Life, the International Students and Scholars Office, and the Registrar's Office. Our office also helps to uphold many of the School and University-wide policies and we manage the School’s disciplinary procedures.
The Artists’ Resource Center, also part of our Office, maintains information on funding opportunities and career resources for students and alumni at the Columbia University School of the Arts, and provides consultations to students and alumni to help them look for professional development opportunities and more.
After graduation, the Office of Alumni Affairs provides more than 7000 alumni artists, creators, and leaders with opportunities to stay connected with the School of the Arts, the Columbia Alumni Association (CAA), and one another through alumni programming, benefits, a monthly newsletter, and collaborations with CAA Arts Access.
Our ultimate goal is to support our students and alums while they pursue their education as valued members of our dynamic community and as they navigate their time after graduation.
Student & Alumni News
Sister Aimee, co-written and co-directed by alumni Marie Schlingmann ’16 and Samantha Buck ’16 had its theatrical debut at the Village East Cinema
Alumni Cyril Aris '17, Antoneta Kusijanović '17 and Lauren Wolkstein
Acting alumnus Grayson Powell ’11 co-stars in the first episode of Amazon’s new romantic comedy television series Modern Love
Current Playwriting student Julián Mesri has been invited to write for Milagro Theater’s INGENIO Milagro program.
Directing alumnus Kareem Fahmy ’07 is making a splash in theatre, directing two plays this fall.
Fiction alumna Jenessa Abrams ’17 is having a great year.
This fall, Adjunct Assistant Professor and alumna Adama Delphine Fawunda ’18 will be featured in five exhibits across the country.
Three films by Columbia filmmakers were selected to screen at the 46th Annual Telluride Film Festival, Mizaru, Night Swim, and Ford v Ferrari.
