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Presentation at Alumnae House historic event venue
Meetings at Alumnae House

Let Our Historic Setting
Inspire Your Modern Ideas

Steeped in tradition and set in the heart of Vassar College’s picturesque campus, Alumnae House offers a distinctive setting for meetings, retreats, and academic gatherings. For over 100 years, this historic residence has welcomed visiting faculty, scholars, and colleagues for thoughtful exchange, quiet reflection, and collaborative innovation.

With its Collegiate Gothic architecture, original woodwork, and beautifully maintained interiors, our historic Poughkeepsie hotel provides a one-of-a-kind alternative to typical conference centers or hotel meeting rooms. The tranquil surroundings and elegant spaces invite focus, creativity, and connection—whether you’re hosting a departmental retreat, faculty meeting, symposium, or overnight stay for a visiting guest speaker.

Plan your next meeting or retreat in a place
where ideas have flourished for generations.

 

Meeting guests at breakfast buffet table at Alumnae House
Classic Style & Modern Amenities

Create an Atmosphere for Success

Guests enjoy the rare opportunity to engage in meaningful work within a space that reflects Vassar’s legacy of academic excellence and intellectual curiosity. From fireside brainstorming sessions to garden-side coffee breaks, every detail is designed to support thoughtful dialogue in a setting that feels both inspiring and welcoming. To help facilitate the successful exchange of ideas, we’re happy to provide WiFi, tables, chairs, linens, podium, projector and screen, microphone and speaker, whiteboards, easels, and other furnishings in the site fee. Guest accommodations are available to support multi-day retreats and overnight visitors.

Stunning Meeting Spaces

Gather Together in Warm & Welcoming Spaces

Whether you’re planning a small meeting for 40 or fewer, a seated lecture or recital for 80 attendees, or a stand-up reception for more, Alumnae House provides a unique and inspiring environment for smaller-scale conferences, intimate gatherings, and larger corporate events.

The Lobby

Overlooking the Garden Terrace, our Lobby feels more like a grand living room with comfortable seating that’s perfect for micro-meetings, break-out space, or just simple conversation. The stone fireplace, iron chandelier, and architectural details help make the space feel even more cozy.

The Living Room

Spacious yet inviting, the Living Room features original architectural details, natural light, and comfortable seating. Ideal for meetings, conferences, and presentations, this space supports a variety of seating styles and setups. With its grand piano and historic Triptych, the space also transitions beautifully for lectures, panel discussions, recitals, or evening gatherings.

The Dining Room

Perfect for seated luncheons and formal dinners, the Dining Room offers warmth and refinement with its walnut-paneled walls and musician’s gallery. With a variety of seating configurations, the Dining Room can accommodate seated dinners, casual buffets, cocktail parties, meetings, or presentations.

The Pub

Ideal for small group sessions or casual conversation, the Pub offers a relaxed setting with whimsical artwork and lounge seating. It’s convenient access to the Dining Room allows for more table seating at larger events, or as a cozy space to mingle after your itinerary for the day is done.

The Library

Filled with Vassar memorabilia and books authored by alums and faculty, The Library adds a reflective dimension perfect for intimate gatherings or academic salons. The wood-paneled walls add a level of distinction that will enhance any meeting, while the comfortable seating areas allow for inspired conversation.

The Garden Terrace

During the warmer months, the Garden Terrace provides a serene outdoor option for networking receptions, meals, or breakout conversations. The historic architecture and manicured landscape add a peaceful, collegial atmosphere to any event.

Room 6 - The Dayton Room with King bed, reading chair and desk in corner location
On-Site Accommodations

Host Your Colleagues in Style

Alumnae House features a collection of charming guest rooms perfect for visiting artists, professors, guest speakers, and retreat attendees. From private ensuite rooms to single-occupancy spaces in the Crego Wing, each stay includes thoughtful amenities and a quiet atmosphere conducive to rest and reflection. Create meaningful connections with your colleagues, or set the scene for social interaction by hosting your team at our historic hotel in Poughkeepsie. The Vassar campus and several restaurants are within steps of the inn, making it an ideal location for esteemed groups.

Woman presenting to group at historic corporate venue in Poughkeepsie, NY
Beautiful wood door peeking into dining room at Alumnae House in Poughkeepsie, NY
Expect an Exceptional Experience

” “One Enchanted Evening”—I can’t thank you enough for welcoming us, the Poughkeepsie Yacht Club, to the Vassar Alumnae House. Your staff was extraordinarily hospitable and helpful. Dare I say, it was like being home at the most gracious manor. We had a marvelous time and hope you enjoyed our company too.”

Kathleen

“Thank you, thank you so much for your kind, personal, and professional hospitality during our recent events. I’m so happy we chose Alumnae House!! I’m grateful to know you, Martha. You’re far more than a great ambassador for Vassar, you’re a one in a gazillion great person. Keep Rockin’”

Dan Kelleher, Midwest Geosciences Group

“Thank you on behalf of the Poughkeepsie Farm Project for your outstanding support at our recent Soup-a-Bowl fundraiser. You and your staff contributed much to the success of this community event.”

Carlie Graves, Chair, Board of Directors, Poughkeepsie Farm Project
Elegant dining room with cane chairs at Alumnae House event venue in front of stone fireplace

Want More Event Details?

Our friendly staff is ready to help plan your ideal event.
Just fill out our online form to take the next step!