About the Faculty Club
As the premier food service provider at Columbia University Irving Medical Center, we offer excellence in service, fine dining, and event planning support. Our clients include CUIMC, NewYork-Presbyterian, the New York State Psychiatric Institute, and Columbia University, as well as private clients.
At our Grab & Go Cafe in the Faculty Club, you can sample some of our menu items and enjoy a quick meal.
When it comes to event planning, we offer our customers a crucial asset: peace of mind. Large or small, formal or informal, your event is important to us. We'll guide you through the planning process, including menu selection, room layout, and decorations, and then deliver elegant cuisine and exemplary service at the site of your choice. Our staff brings passion and experience to the table. We'll work hand-in-hand with you to ensure your event is memorable.
Our Team
Michael Alberto
- Executive Director
Since 2009, I have led the Faculty Club at Columbia University Irving Medical Center. My team is known for its personal touch and attention to detail, contributing to more than 5,500 events each year.
I received a bachelor's degree in business administration from Baruch College of the City University of New York, and have more than 15 years of experience in the food and service industry. Previously, I was the catering manager for Columbia University Event Management at the Morningside campus. I credit my experiences there with helping me define my role as CUIMC's “chief experience officer.”
As executive director of the Faculty Club, I'm proud to have built a team dedicated to perfecting the customer experience. Together, we have transformed the Faculty Club into a stunning example of elegant cuisine and excellent service.
Jose Gutierrez
- Director
I started working as a waiter at Columbia University Catering on the Morningside campus when I was 17, and I've been working for the University ever since.
I began my culinary, bartending, and restaurant training while working at Columbia, and really grew to love the food I served and prepared. Today, I handle the day-to-day of running over 5,000 events each year. This includes anything from walking a client through our extensive event planning process to setting up multiple events for several hundred guests. For me this is not a job, it’s a passion. If I had to choose, I would do it all over again!
Erika Futaki
- Catering Sales Manager
I came to the United States more than 10 years ago. Like many immigrants, I worked in the restaurant industry to establish myself. Although this was one of few choices I had then, I quickly realized there is more to this industry than one might expect. We don't just learn about food—we also meet interesting people and learn a lot about the world.
I have been with the Faculty Club for more than three years and am proud to be part of such a great, hard-working group. We cater and host a variety of events, so there is never a dull moment.
While here, I've really fallen for our avocado, artichoke, and hearts of palm salad. Many don’t expect anything exciting from a salad, but this dish is fun and healthy. The 50 Haven Lounge architecture also adds flavor to any event. You can’t beat the view. And I love hosting holiday parties. Watching everyone let go of the year’s stress and enjoy themselves is fantastic.
Faculty Club FAQ
What is the CUIMC Faculty Club?
The CUIMC Faculty Club is a dining, catering, and event planning resource for Columbia University Irving Medical Center. It offers daily lunch, catering services, event planning support, and access to event spaces.
Where is the CUIMC Faculty Club located?
The CUIMC Faculty Club is located at 630 West 168th Street, 4th Floor, New York, NY 10032.
What services does the Faculty Club provide?
The Faculty Club provides catering, event planning support, daily lunch service, event space support, menus, student event guidance, and reservations for lunch and catered events.
Who can use the Faculty Club?
The Faculty Club serves the Columbia University Irving Medical Center community, including faculty, staff, students, departments, student organizations, and guests attending CUIMC events.