Event Registration
$235
Early Bird (Until December 31st)
A 15% discounted rate for those registering by December 31st. This includes access to the full program, Friday night’s reception, and two refreshment breaks on Saturday.
$275
Standard Fee
The standard rate for the symposium. This includes access to the full program, Friday night’s reception, and two refreshment breaks on Saturday.
$100
Students & Early Career
A discounted option for students and early career professionals (two years post-graduate, verified via uploaded copy of degree). This includes access to the full program, Friday night’s reception, and two refreshment breaks on Saturday.
The Symposium is limited to 80 people for an intimate gathering and sharing of ideas. All accepted “Food for Thought” participants need to register to confirm. So, please register early to reserve your spot!
FAQ
Frequently Asked Questions
When and where is the symposium taking place?
The event will be held February 27th and 28th at Mercy University’s Manhattan Campus, located at 47 West 34th Street, near Herald Square in Midtown Manhattan, NYC.
What are the registration deadlines (Early Bird, Standard, Student/Early Career)?
All registration options are open now. The Early Bird rate is available until December 31, 2025. After that, the Standard and Student/Early Career rates remain open until February 20, 2026, one week before the symposium begins.
How do you define a Student or Early Career?
A student is defined as a full-time student in a degree-seeking graduate program. Students must upload proof of enrollment (such as a transcript, a copy of a current student identification card, or a letter signed by the program head on university letterhead) when registering.
An early career professional is defined as a professional who is within two years of graduation. Please upload a copy of your degree or transcript when registering.
What does my registration include?
Your registration provides access to the 1.5 days of the whole symposium, including keynote sessions (Catalytic Conversations) and concurrent sessions (Dialogic Reflections). It also includes access to Friday night’s reception and two refreshment breaks on Saturday.
Will food and refreshments be provided?
A Friday night reception and two refreshment breaks on Saturday are included for all participants. There will also be a 90-minute lunch break on Saturday, giving participants time to engage with each other and explore nearby dining options on their own.
Is the venue accessible (wheelchair access, dietary accommodations, etc.)?
Yes. Mercy University’s Manhattan campus is wheelchair accessible. While we may not be able to accommodate all requests, we will make efforts to support participants with accessibility or dietary needs. If you require reasonable accommodation to participate fully, please email us to determine if we can accommodate your needs prior to registering.
What are the forms of acceptable payment?
Payment of registration fees should be made by Credit Card (Visa, MasterCard/Eurocard) entry via the registration form.
Who can I contact if I have questions about registration or the program?
For any questions, please contact us at info@TaosInstitute.net. We’ll be glad to assist you.
Terms of Registration
Cancellation and Refund Policy
Early Cancellation: A full refund, minus a $25 administrative fee (plus any applicable financial charges), is available if you cancel on or before January 31, 2026.
Late Cancellation: No refunds will be issued on or after February 1, 2026, or thereafter.
Transfer Option: If you’re unable to attend the symposium, you may transfer your registration to a colleague on or before February 20, 2026, by emailing us.
Please consider travel insurance, given these are uncertain times for travel, especially if you are traveling to the US. Please verify with your insurance carrier if they will cover registration fees, trip cancellation/interruption/delay, etc.
US Compliance Law
By registering, I (the registrant) am confirming that I am not located in or a resident of Cuba, Iran, North Korea, Syria, or the Crimea, Donetsk, or Luhansk regions of Ukraine. (The U.S. laws require this compliance).
Travel & Hotel
Are there recommended hotels or accommodations nearby?
The symposium takes place in Midtown Manhattan near Herald Square, where there are numerous hotel options ranging in price. For the easiest access, we recommend looking for accommodations near Herald Square or Penn Station. We will have a courtesy room block with the Hilton Garden Inn on W. 35th Street. (Details arriving soon!)
Is there public transportation near the venue?
Yes. The venue is centrally located and easily accessible by subway. Herald Square–34th Street Station (B, D, F, M, N, Q, R, and W trains) is steps away, and Penn Station (1, 2, 3, A, C, and E trains as well as NJ Transit, Amtrak, LIRR, PATH) is a short walk.
Is there parking near the venue?
Mercy University’s Manhattan Campus does not offer on-campus parking. However, there are several parking garages nearby, with daily rates typically ranging from $25–$40. We recommend booking ahead through services like SpotHero or BestParking, as Midtown parking can fill quickly.
International Travel
How do I apply for a visa to enter the U.S.?
To apply for a visa, please visit: U.S. Visas
Find a U.S. Embassy or Consulate that processes visas in your country of nationality or residence.
Please check your local visa processing time before registering for the Symposium.
How do I get an invitation letter to apply for a visa?
Upon request, an Invitation Letter can be sent to you by email to assist with your visa application for entry into the United States to attend the Symposium.
Reimagining our personal, public, and political lives
Join us for a vibrant gathering across disciplines to deepen our connections and spark meaningful collaboration, re-imagining our personal, public, and political lives.
Contact
1-(440)-201-9118
Mercy University,
Manhattan Campus
47 West 34th Street
(Near Herald Square)
New York, NY 10001