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FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

Who can host an event at the Alumni Center?

  • The Alumni Center is part of Stanford University and as such, is a private, tax-exempt venue. It is available for events directly organized, planned, and managed by a Stanford school or department, registered student group, LPCH, or SHC. Events must be consistent with the educational mission of Stanford University and intended primarily for Stanford alumni, faculty, students, and staff. Unaffiliated outside entities must first approach a related department that's willing to take ownership and partnership committing to financial, active planning, and participating responsibilities. Please visit the Office of Special Events and Protocol (OSEP) for more information about sponsored events.

As an Alumni, may I host a memorial service/wedding/commitment ceremony and/or reception in the Alumni Center?

  • Unfortunately, due to our tax status, the Alumni Center is not available for these types of services; we are only able to host events organized by Stanford Departments that adhere to the mission of Stanford University. Memorial receptions celebrating the life of a faculty member, staff or student may be allowed when directly organized and conducted by a related University department; however, such events can only be approved on a case-by-case basis by the Stanford Alumni Association.

    The Faculty Club on campus is open to all reservation types. Their web site is
    http://www.stanford.edu/group/facultyclub/cgi-bin/

How far in advance of my event date can I reserve space in the Alumni Center?

  • You may reserve space in the Alumni Center up to 2 years in advance of your event. While your reservation is being held, only a program sponsored by the President's Office, Stanford Alumni Association or Office of Development (the Alumni Center tenants) may override your event. Bear in mind that we make every effort to preserve your date and we will contact you immediately if a scheduling conflict arises.

Who will staff my event from the Alumni Center?

  • A member of the Alumni Center Services event team will be onsite to assist you during your event. We require that your organization provide at least one key contact person who will work with us in coordinating your event. You or your organization are responsible for the main event staffing, and we require that at least one key individual serve as the main contact person throughout the planning and be at the event itself.

Does the Alumni Center provide tables and chairs, audiovisual equipment, set-up assistance, etc.?

  • Depending on the size of your event and the space in which it will be held, either the Alumni Center Services team or Event Services will provide the appropriate equipment and set-up assistance. Our staff will advise you based upon your event requirements. If your event requires Event Services, we will notify you. You will need to complete and submit the appropriate work order(s) online, and are responsible for all fees and charges associated with using Event Services.

When do I need to get my work orders in and where do I submit them?

  • Whenever possible all work orders must be submitted a minimum of two weeks prior to your event to avoid rush charges.

How do I arrange additional parking for large conferences at the Alumni Center?

  • Should your event require special parking assistance, please contact the Alumni Center Services team for recommendations. Once we have discussed your options, please contact Parking & Transportation Services (PT&S) at eventparking@stanford.edu or at (650) 723-9362, Monday - Friday between 7:30 a.m. - 5:00 p.m.

What should I call the Alumni Center in our marketing materials?

  • In all publicity related to your event, please refer to our location as the Frances C. Arrillaga Alumni Center.

What is the reservation cancellation policy?

  • McCALL HALL/FORD GARDENS
    • 91 or more days before event - no cancellation fee.
    • 90-61 days out: 50% of the room rental fee.
    • 60 days or less: 100% of the room rental fee.
  • FISHER CONFERENCE CENTER/McCOLL PLAZA
    • (Lane/Lyons/Lodato & Barnes/McDowell/Cranston)
    • 61 or more days before event - no cancellation fee.
    • 60 days or less: 100% of the room rental fee.
Cancellations must be made in writing, via e-mail or fax.

Approved Caterers and Event Services have their own cancellation policies, please inquire with them directly.