Social Events

We have a number of activities planned for you to get to know each other, NCAN faculty, and Course faculty during your time here. This page will be updated regularly with forms to indicate your intent to participate in these activities, so check back here often!

Catered Lunches

To allow you time to mingle with other Course participants and faculty, during each day of lectures, we will host catered lunches from a variety of local restaurants. Prices will vary with each vendor. Enjoy a delivered meal from some of NCAN's favorite eateries and mingle with the faculty! Participation is optional, but highly recommended to make the most out of the Course; these were a highlight of past students' time! Sign-ups will occur online 2-3 days before each lunch; payment will be due the day before the lunch.

See below for a tentative schedule of the catered lunches that is subject to change, along with the sign-up form for each lecture (signs-up coming).

Week 1

Monday, July 10th- Panera Bread
Tuesday, July 11th- Anton's (Greek)
Wednesday, July 12th- Moe's (Tex-Mex)
Thursday, July 13th- Andy's (deli sandwiches)
Friday, July 14th- The Chuck Wagon (a local food truck; no sign-up required)

Week 2

(No catered lunches during the training exercises)
Saturday, July 22nd- La Empanada Llama (Peruvian)

Week 3

Monday, July 24th- Rain (Chinese)
Tuesday, July 25th- Ragonese Imports (deli sandwiches)
Wednesday, July 26th- Spinner's Pizza
Thursday, July 27th- TBA
Friday, July 28th- Hamilton Street Cafe (sandwiches and wraps)

From the Lecture Hall to the Table: Dinners with Faculty

To encourage discussion between students and faculty, we will also be organizing a number of dinners with faculty at local restaurants. Dinners will be limited to 3-4 students plus faculty. More information about sign-ups and the dinner schedule will be coming soon.

Closing Reception

A closing plenary reception for the Course will be held at the conclusion of lecture on Friday, July 28th, ~5:30pm. Course faculty, NCAN staff, and students are invited to reflect on their time at the Course, plan future collaborations and meet-ups, and mingle while light refreshments and non-alcoholic beverages are served.

Albany-Area Events

Summertime is here! Albany is known for its signature, free Alive at Five concert series, now in its 28th year of showcasing both big-name artists and the hottest local bands. Summer at the Plaza hosts a number of free events at the Empire State Plaza, home to state offices, the New York State Museum, and Corning Tower, which offers an amazing view of the Capital Region from its observation deck. We encourage you to take some time to explore New York's historic and vibrant Capital District! There is also a musical show "Ragtime," appearing at the Park Playhouse at 8 PM Tuesdays through Saturdays in July. The show is free of charge in the open hillside seating. For more information, visit their website

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