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
Last night, celebrated filmmaker, Film Program alum, and Dean's Council Chair Katharina Otto-Bernstein '92(CC '86)
Writing alum Kristen Martin '16 publishes debut nonfiction book, The Sun Won’t Come Out Tomorrow (Bold Type Books, 2025).
Hogarth Press has acquired North American rights to two novels by Writing Program alum Woody Brown '24.
Alum Alexandre Ilic '18 discusses his journey as an artist and creator.
Distinguished Writing alumni and faculty are heading to Los Angeles for the Association of Writers and Writing Programs Conference & Bookfair.
Film and Media Studies alum Soumya Vats ’22 has had her essay on the controversy surrounding BBC One’s A Suitable Boy pub
Talking to Rachel Kushner'01, author ofthe National Book Award-nominated and Booker Prize shor
Playwriting alum Jay Stull '20, Directing alum Keenan Tyler Oliphant ’20 and Film alum Aurora Real de Asu
The School of the Arts is well represented in the United States Artists 2025 Fellowships.
Writing alum Jessi Jezewska Stevens ’17 has been named a finalist for the 2025 Story Prize for her short story collection Ghos
Columbia Filmmakers are heading to Germany for the 75th Annual Berlinale to compete across several categories.
Founded by Tony Award-winning Adjunct Assistant Professor Cody Renard Richard, the scholarship champions artists of color working