Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) for Ellington in the Park

Registration for graduating CU ISSO students is still available and open until 11:59 p.m. on Friday, May 8.

Guest tickets are available in registration. Registered guests must arrive with the graduating international student.

ISSO wants to take this time to celebrate your accomplishments! Come and enjoy the food and drinks while they last. Students are responsible for their own transportation to and from Ellington in the Park as well as any additional food or drinks you would like to purchase.

The reception will be outdoors, so dress accordingly. Feel free to wear Columbia colors or bring your cap and gown for selfie opportunities!

ISSO Communications Team will be at the event filming unique reels and taking photos with you and other graduates. Bring your graduation regalia (cap/gown) to participate.

Wine and beer will be available to students 21 years of age or older. Participants must show a valid photo ID (Passport, U.S. Driver’s License, or U.S. State ID). Photocopies will not be accepted.

Feel free to stop by anytime between 1PM and 5PM. Please note the reception will be wrapping up by 5PM. Please check in at the ISSO Welcome Table, located on the south side of Ellington in the Park. Food and drinks will be available while supplies last.

If you are walking from the Morningside campus, you can enter Riverside Park at 108th Street and Riverside. Go down the steps and walk south. If you have trouble finding Ellington in the Park, please text or call:

• Noah Florimon (212-853-6211)
• Stacy Bile (212-853-4798)
• James Lee (212-853-4968)
• Cait Cronin (212-853-5789)
• Chad Goeden (212-854-6263)

ISSO staff will be there to celebrate with you and all of the graduating international students who will join the reception. They can help to introduce you to others if you let them know.

An assortment of hors d'oeuvres will be available throughout the afternoon. A variety of soft drinks are also available. Please note that a full meal is not being served. Gluten free and vegan options will be available throughout the afternoon while they last.

If you have food allergies, please consult with the Ellington staff before eating any of the food.

The first 400 guests who arrive and are 21 years of age or older can receive one complimentary glass of wine or beer while supplies last. A variety of soft drinks are available to everyone. Participants can purchase additional wine and beer at their own expense.

We will be under a tent, but the reception will still be open!

Please contact the organizers at [email protected] by Thursday, May 7, 2026.