SIPA: School of International and Public Affairs at Columbia University

Timeout SIPA

>> Back to Student Life

Timeout SIPA is a program which brings SIPA students and SIPA faculty together outside the classroom for breakfast, lunch or dinner. SIPA believes that faculty/student engagement outside the classroom is not only a vital component of the graduate student experience, but also central to creating and sustaining a dynamic community. With funding from Dean John H. Coatsworth, this initiative has been designed to provide SIPA students and faculty with opportunities to develop and strengthen ties outside the classroom in a less formal, more personal setting. 

Funding Criteria:

For students, we hope these sessions inspire spontaneous and free-flowing discussions about their coursework, expectations and questions concerning career choices and professional opportunities.  For SIPA faculty, we hope the sessions provide a chance to engage students on topics influential to their teaching, research and matters important to the school.

A maximum of $150 of support is provided for each outing. Students may host once per semester. SIPA faculty may host and participate in student hosted activities as often as they are able. SIPA faculty and administrators may be reimbursed for up to 2 outings per academic year. A minimum of one SIPA faculty member and three students are required for an event to be eligible for funding. A minimum of one SIPA faculty member and three students are required for an event.

Instructions for Reimbursement:

To be eligible for TimeOut Funding you must submit the online Timeout Reimbursement Form at least one (1) week prior to the event. 

NOTE: Getting approval prior to the event is a new policy.

Once your event has been reviewed, and given there is funding, you will receive a notice of your approval via email.

TimeOut funding is a reimbursement and no funding will be distributed prior to the event. Additionally, you may not use vouchers.

After the event you should:

• Complete a Business Expense Form. 

• Attached to your completed Business Expense Report you must include:

  • Original receipt(s) for the event
  • Credit/debit card statement, if your purchases was made with a credit/debit card.
  • W-9 form (NOTE: You only need to complete this form if you have not been previously reimbursed by the University. Payroll and Business Services are separate offices. For security reasons, please do not fax or email.)
  • Approval email from the Office of Student Affairs

Completed forms and supporting documents must be turned in to the SIPA Business Office (IAB 1420) not more than 2 weeks following the event.

If you have questions about the Timeout Program approvals, please contact Dean Bruce in the Office of Student Affairs.  Questions about reimbursement should be directed to the SIPA Business Office (212-854-6301).