Navigating Life After Graduation: A Guide to Columbia University Alumni Services

For graduates of Columbia University, the journey doesn't end with commencement. A wealth of resources and opportunities remain available through the university's alumni services, designed to foster continued growth, connection, and contribution. This guide provides an overview of the services and benefits accessible to Columbia University alumni, including those from Columbia College, Barnard, Teachers College, and Union Theological Seminary, with a specific focus on the Columbia School of Social Work (CSSW).

Accessing Columbia University Libraries

Physical Access and Borrowing Privileges

Alumni retain physical access to most Columbia University Libraries, allowing them to utilize the extensive collections and study spaces. However, it’s important to note that restrictions may apply when trying to access Morningside campus. For those seeking borrowing privileges, these can be purchased for a monthly fee of $30 at the Library Information Office, granting access to both onsite and offsite collections.

Electronic Resources

Graduates of Columbia University, Barnard, Teachers College, and Union Theological Seminary have off-campus access to a selection of Libraries e-resources, which only require an active UNI. Access to e-resources do not require a Community CUID. Please use the links on this page for access.

Community CUID

If you prefer to receive your Community CUID sooner and you have Morningside campus access, you can schedule an appointment and fill out your application in person. You will receive your Community CUID the day of your appointment.

Columbia School of Social Work (CSSW) Alumni Association

A Thriving Network

The Columbia School of Social Work boasts an extensive alumni network, exceeding 20,000 members, with many holding leadership positions in prominent social work agencies and institutions. A significant portion of these alumni maintain a strong relationship with the School, serving as advisors or field supervisors for students, giving talks about their careers, and participating in networking events. As a graduate of the Columbia School of Social Work, you are automatically a member of the CSSW Alumni Association.

Read also: Columbia University Legacy

Staying Connected and Involved

The CSSW Alumni Association organizes special events such as receptions, workshops, and lectures throughout the academic year. A special highlight is Alumni Day, held in spring semester. Alumni are encouraged to get involved with the school through various avenues.

Online Resources

CSSW alumni can access a number of electronic resources and databases from their home computer through the Alumni and Friends gateway, using their UNI and password. NOTE: To activate those privileges, you must first register with the Library Information Office at Butler Library and obtain a University ID card (This can only be done by visiting Butler Library.

Continuing Education

CSSW is an approved provider of contact hours for New York State. Alumni can check out the list of continuing education workshops, for which you can earn CEUs.

Career and Leadership Management

The Office of Career and Leadership Management is committed to providing the School’s alumni with the necessary tools to successfully navigate and manage their careers post-graduation.

Transcripts and Letters of Verification

For transcript requests, refer to the University Registrar’s instructions on Ordering a Transcript. For letters or documentation certifying your education, practicum hours and experience, and/or coursework or credits completed for licensure, employment, or other purpose, submit a request to Student Affairs using their Letter Request Form. For information about licensure requirements and procedures, contact the respective state board directly.

Hall of Fame

The Hall of Fame honors alumni who have made outstanding contributions to the theory and/or practice of social work and who, by their example, have added distinction to the social work profession. All alumni are welcome to nominate other alumni for this honor. Graduates from all fields of practice receive full consideration in the nomination process.

Online Alumni Community

The Online Alumni Community is a great resource when looking for a job, moving to a new city or state, or staying connected with friends. Search for alumni across the globe working in specific organizations, reconnect with classmates, and update your contact information by logging in with your UNI and password.

Columbia College Alumni Association

A Legacy of Connection

Organized in 1882, the Columbia College Alumni Association stands as one of the oldest in the country, boasting approximately 15,000 members. Every semester, opportunities arise for alumni to engage in recruitment, mentoring, scholarships, hosting local events, and campus activities.

Ways to Engage

Alumni are encouraged to connect with Columbia College as much as possible. Join your friends and fellow Koala alumni at special events. Get reduced rates on rental spaces and more. Every month, you'll receive an online edition of Columbia College's alumni magazine.

More Than Just a Campus

Columbia College is more than its idyllic campus. It's more than its 170 years of traditions. More than its undergraduate and graduate degrees. Columbia College is all of us. It's the group of more than 15,000 alumni who call this special place home.

Read also: Paying for Columbia

Alumni Association Awards

Each year, the Alumni Association recognizes four deserving graduates for their distinguished service to Columbia College and the community at-large, as well as for any outstanding achievements in their chosen professions. All Columbia College alumni are invited to submit nominations for our Alumni Association Awards.

Recent Award Recipients

2025 Award Recipients

Distinguished Service Award - Dr. Traci Scott Dingle ‘06
Career Achievement Award - Shawn Stanton-Carr ‘90
Outstanding Young Alumni Award - Callie Goodwin ‘17
Wil Lou Gray Outstanding Educator Award - Latonia Ishmal ‘17 and Dr. Mary Ann Solesbee ‘71 (awarded posthumously)

2024 Award Recipients

Distinguished Service Award - Emil Burns Mitchell ‘84
Career Achievement Award - The Honorable Deborah "Deb" Brooks Durden ‘83
Outstanding Young Alumna Award - Destine Hicks Lundy ‘18
President's Award - Margaret "Meg" Ward Pace ‘62

2023 Award Recipients

Distinguished Service Award - Nancy Burch Bunch ‘72
Career Achievement Award - Kaymani “Kay” Daniels West ‘97
Wil Lou Gray Outstanding Educator Award - Vivia Lawton Fowler ‘76
Outstanding Young Alumna Award - Kristin Wilson ‘17

2022 Award Recipients

Career Achievement Award - Cathy Shields '71
Distinguished Service Award - Tonya Tisdale Green '94
Outstanding Young Alumna Award - Jamesha Shackerford '15
Wil Lou Gray Outstanding Educator Award - Ann White '76 and Tiffany Williams Blessingame '00

2021 Award Recipients

Career Achievement Award - Beth Roberts Baxley '84
Distinguished Service Award - Carol Stackhouse Hall '74
Outstanding Young Alumna Award - Sarah Faulds Hopkins '09
Wil Lou Gray Outstanding Educator Award - Tamekia Ford M '13

2020 Award Recipients

Career Achievement Award - Dr. Patricia Bouknight
Distinguished Service Award - Janice Griffin
Outstanding Young Alumna Award - Dr. Emelin Garcia Nieto
Wil Lou Gray Outstanding Educator Award - Dr. Maggie Moore completed her Master of Trauma-Informed Education degree in 2023.

Columbia College: More Than Just a Degree

Sarah Ford graduated from Columbia College in 2004 and was recently thrust into the public eye through the instant success of the podcast she co-hosts. Excellence in education, rich in tradition-we're Koala family. Get the skills employers want. Join a culture that cares for each other and gives back to society. Vibrant student life in a serene setting. A place that feels like home. Where reasonable tuition meets high-quality education. A mascot as unique as our students. You matter and you're one of a kind.

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