Event Management AV and Tech Fund Saves Student $$ to Reinvest in Events
In the first semester of the 2024-25 academic year, 105 student-organized events utilized resources available through the Event Management AV and Tech Fund. A total of $50,184 was saved, allowing student groups to reallocate funds into other aspects of their events.
Thanks to the savings, notable performance events like the Columbia Pops and Orchesis were able to put resources into additional tech rehearsals in the auditorium, helping the groups fine tune their final performances.
"The AV and Tech Fund has allowed Pops to provide far more concerts and outreach to the student body. This year, with the implementation, Pops has been able to comfortably have multiple showcases and full orchestra concerts in venues such as Wang Pavilion, Lerner 555, and Roone Arledge Auditorium. From all of us at Columbia Pops, thank you so much for allowing our organization to grow and thrive." -- Teja Kausik, Columbia Pops Treasurer
The Third Wheel Improv group was able to allocate funds to talent development.
“Thanks to the AV and Tech Fund, our money goes further. Last semester during our annual Spare Tires Improv Festival, we hired a professional improv coach to host a workshop, offering an opportunity for college improv students from across the country to receive real-time coaching. This workshop was simultaneously a professional development opportunity for members of our group seeking potential careers in comedy.” -- Tyler Zwick, Third Wheel Co-President
Even events like Lerner Pub with more minimal technical needs like lighting and music benefited from the small savings.
“The savings from the Tech Fund, no matter how small, enable a more vibrant student life on campus and are incredibly helpful for us.” - Rohan Mehta, Lerner Pub and CCSC representative
The fund was announced in September 2024, in an effort to help students manage costs for activities held in Lerner Hall. AV Labor charges under $600 are automatically approved by the fund for qualified events and applied to event reservations. For Lerner Auditorium, charges under $675 will be automatically approved for qualified events.
From small savings to larger benefits, the AV and Tech Fund is just one initiative underway to help recognized student groups facilitate more, bigger, better and cost-efficient programming for the campus community.