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FAQS

 

Welcome to the 5th Bi-Annual Columbia Coaching Conference at Columbia University! We're thrilled to have you join us for an inspiring and engaging experience. To help you make the most of your time with us and plan ahead, we’ve compiled answers to frequently asked questions to ensure a smooth, enjoyable visit.

General Information

  • The 5th Bi-Annual Columbia Coaching Conference will take place October 14–16, 2025. 

  • The conference will be held at Columbia University’s Teachers College on the Morningside Heights campus, at the Horace Mann Building located on Broadway between West 120th and 121st Streets.

  • Please enter at the main entrance to the Cowin Auditorium, located in the Horace Mann Building at Teachers College, Columbia University.

  • A map of the Columbia University campus is available here. 

Registration & Check-In Logistics

  • Check-in opens at 7:30 AM each day in the lobby of the Cowin Auditorium, located in the Horace Mann Building. Follow posted signage or ask a staff member for assistance upon arrival.

  • We recommend arriving between 7:30 and 8:00 AM each day to allow time for check-in, enjoy breakfast, and get settled before sessions begin.

  • Programming begins promptly at 8:30 AM each day.

  • There will be an Opening Reception on Day 1, immediately following the afternoon keynote — held on campus and open to all registered attendees

  • To help you plan your time and make the most of your visit, we've provided a sample schedule outlining the general flow of each conference day, available here. This preview is designed to support your travel planning and allow space to explore the neighborhood, connect with fellow attendees, or unwind between sessions.

     

    Please note: The schedule is subject to change.  The full program — including confirmed speakers, session topics, and room assignments — will be released in Fall 2025.

  • Yes! The conference app is generally available for download one week before the conference (early October 2025).  The app will include the conference schedule (with live updates) and the ability to sign up for concurrent sessions. ​

     

    Please note: Breakout sessions have limited capacity based on room size and local fire safety regulations. Signing up in advance through the app ensures you can attend your preferred sessions. Once a session reaches capacity, participants will need to select an alternative session with availability. Download instructions will be shared via email and posted on our website

  • Yes! Dedicated breaks, lunch blocks, and the opening reception are designed to encourage conversation and connection. The event app also includes an attendee list and messaging features to help you connect.

  • Yes. Water bottle filling stations are available throughout Teachers College. 

  • Yes. Designated quiet and lactation spaces are available. Please inquire at the registration desk or refer to the event app for locations.

Tech & Accessibility, On-Site Meals

  • Yes. Free guest Wi-Fi is available throughout Teachers College. Network credentials will be shared at check-in.

  • Select sessions will be recorded. Details will be provided following the event.

  • Yes. Teachers College is fully ADA-compliant. If you require specific accommodations, please email info@columbiacoachingconference.org.

  • Yes. The following meals are included with your registration:

    • Light breakfast and coffee each morning Lunch on all three days of the conference

    • We have also provided recommendations for off-site meals in the “Hotels, Local Dining & Essentials” section below. ​

500+

global thought leaders, scholars and practitioners in executive and organization coaching.

Transportation & Directions

  • Three international airports—John F. Kennedy (JFK), LaGuardia (LGA), and Newark Liberty International (EWR)—offer convenient access to Columbia University via public transportation (bus, train, etc.)  taxi, or rideshare. The nearest airport to Columbia University is LGA. More details are below.

    • Take the AirTrain to Jamaica Station

    • Transfer to the E train (NYC subway) to 50th Street

    • Transfer to the 1 Local train Uptown to the Columbia University/116th Street stop

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    Taxi and rideshare services (e.g., Uber and Lyft) are available at all airports. Estimated fares (pre-tip): JFK ~$70

  • Take the M60 Select Bus Service (runs every 30 minutes for $2.90) directly to the 116th Street–Columbia University stop.

    ​

    Taxi and rideshare services (e.g., Uber and Lyft) are available at all airports. Estimated fares (pre-tip): LGA ~$55

    • Take the AirTrain to Newark Liberty International Airport Station

    • Transfer to NJ Transit or Amtrak to Penn Station

    • From Penn Station, take the 1 Local train Uptown to 116th Street–Columbia University
       

    Taxi and rideshare services (e.g., Uber and Lyft) are available at all airports. Estimated fares (pre-tip): EWR ~$80

  • MTA Subway fare is $2.90 per ride, with free transfers between subway lines or from bus to subway. You can pay using a MetroCard (available for purchase at all stations), or contactless payment (e.g., Apple Pay, Google Pay, or OMNY-enabled cards).

    • Take the 1 Local Train (Red Line) to 116th Street–Columbia University Walk north along Broadway to 120th Street to reach Teachers College

    • If traveling via the 2 or 3 Express trains, transfer to the 1 Local train at 96th Street, as the express trains do not stop at 116th Street.

     

    From Penn Station or Port Authority:

    Take the 1 train Uptown from Times Square–42nd Street station

     

    From Grand Central Terminal:

    Take the Shuttle (S) train to Times Square–42nd Street, then transfer to the 1 Local train Uptown You can view maps and plan your trip using the MTA website.

  • Bus Service (Local):

    MTA Bus fare is $2.90. Use exact change, MetroCard, or contactless payment (Apple Pay, Google Pay, or OMNY-enabled cards), with free transfers available between buses and subways.

     

    Local Buses serving the area include: M4, M11, M60, M104

    Closest stops to Teachers College are 120th Street at Broadway, 120th Street at Amsterdam, and 116th Street–Columbia University. You can view maps and plan your trip using the MTA website.

     

    Commuter and Coach Buses:

    Most commuter and intercity buses arrive at Port Authority Bus Terminal (42nd Street & 8th Avenue) Transfer to the subway or local buses to reach campus

    • Amtrak, NJ Transit, Metro-North, and LIRR all arrive at Moynihan Penn Station or Grand Central Terminal.

    • Amtrak - Intercity service from major cities across the U.S. Long Island Railroad (LIRR) - Serving Queens, Nassau County, and Suffolk County

    • New Jersey Transit (NJ Transit)  - Serving locations across New Jersey Metro-North Railroad - Serving northern suburbs of New York City and parts of Connecticut

    • From either station, you can travel north to Columbia University’s campus via subway, bus or taxi/rideshare. Visit the Long Island Railroad, Metro-North Railroad, NJ Transit or Amtrak websites for schedules and fare information.

  • While driving is an option, please note that traffic in New York City can be highly congested and unpredictable, particularly during rush hours. We strongly recommend using public transportation when possible.  

     

    If you choose to drive, Teachers College is accessible via the Henry Hudson Parkway (also known as the West Side Highway), which runs along the Hudson River on Manhattan’s west side. The parkway connects conveniently to Interstate 95 (I-95) and other major routes into the city.

     

    Directions from the Henry Hudson Parkway: Whether traveling northbound or southbound, exit at 95th Street. At the first traffic light, turn left onto Riverside Drive (heading north). At 120th Street, turn right (east) and continue two blocks to Teachers College. The main entrance is on the north side of West 120th Street, between Broadway and Amsterdam Avenue.

  • Street Parking: While metered parking is available on both sides of West 120th Street, street parking in the Columbia University area is limited and highly competitive. We strongly encourage the use of public transportation when possible.

     

    Nearby Parking: For those who choose to drive, the following off-street parking facilities are nearby.

     

    Please contact garages directly for current rates, hours, and reservations:

    • Morningside Garage – 3100 Broadway at 123rd Street

    • GGMC Parking – 512–520 West 112th Street SP+ Parking – 532 West 122nd Street

    • E & B Operating Corp. – 137 West 108th Street (between Amsterdam & Columbus)

    • Park Yorkshire Garage – 151 West 108th Street (between Amsterdam & Columbus)

    • Upper Westside Parking Garage – 234 West 108th Street (between Amsterdam & Broadway)

Hotel, Local Dining & Essentials

  • A room block is available for conference attendees at:

     

    Aloft Harlem: 2296 Frederick Douglass Blvd, New York, NY 10027

    Rate: $285 per night (plus taxes and fees)

     

    Room Type: King Room

    Available Dates: Saturday, October 11 – Friday, October 17, 2025

    Booking Deadline: Sunday, September 21, 2025

    Reserve Your Room at the Conference Rate

     

    Rooms are limited — we recommend booking early to ensure availability.

  • Columbia University is surrounded by a variety of excellent restaurants, cafes, and casual dining spots. Here are some attendee favorites within walking distance of campus:

     

    Casual & Health-Conscious

    Community Food & Juice – American, farm-to-table fare with vegetarian and vegan options📍 2893 Broadway at 113th St

     

    Comfort Food & Burgers

    Mel’s Burger Bar – Classic burgers, comfort food, and a lively atmosphere

    📍 2850 Broadway at 111th St

     

    Japanese CuisineJin Ramen – Cozy spot for Japanese ramen, rice bowls, and small plates

    📍 3183 Broadway near 126th St

     

    Upscale & International

    Le Monde – French bistro with a warm ambiance, great for lunch or dinner

    📍 2885 Broadway at 112th

     

    St Pisticci – Organic Italian with rustic charm, ideal for intimate meals or small groups

    📍 125 La Salle St, near Broadway & 122nd

     

    St Serafina – Contemporary Italian cuisine with stylish indoor and outdoor seating

    📍 Located nearby on Amsterdam Avenue

     

    Classic NYC

    Tom’s Restaurant – Iconic NYC diner featured in Seinfeld, serving traditional breakfast and lunch

    📍 2880 Broadway at 112th St

    • CVS Pharmacy – 2833 Broadway (at 110th Street) Duane Reade – 2684 Broadway (at 102nd Street)

    • Westside Market – Full grocery store at 2840 Broadway

Additional Support

  • Visit the information desk in the main lobby or look for staff members wearing “Volunteer” shirts. You can also reach us by email: info@columbiacoachingconference.org.

  • Eligible attendees may have the opportunity to earn Continuing Education Units (CEUs) through Columbia University and Continuing Coach Education (CCE) credits approved by the International Coaching Federation (ICF).  Details on the number of credits available and how to claim them will be shared closer to the conference and at the event.

  • Yes. All accepted presenters are eligible for a discounted registration rate of $475.  You should have received a presenter registration code in your official acceptance letter.

     

    If you do not have your code, please contact your track chair directly using the appropriate email below:

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    Please note: The presenter rate is available only to confirmed presenters and must be applied at the time of registration.

  • Yes. Certificates will be distributed digitally after the conference. For ICF or other credentialing questions, you may contact: info@columbiacoachingconference.org.

  • Yes. Several sessions will be recorded and photographed for documentation and promotional purposes. By attending, you consent to being photographed or recorded as part of conference-related media. If you have concerns or wish to opt out, please contact our team: info@columbiacoachingconference.org prior to the event.

  • Our full registration and cancellation policy can be found here. We encourage all attendees to review the terms before registering. If you have specific questions, please contact us: info@columbiacoachingconference.org.

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