SUNY Chancellor John B. King Jr. visited Dutchess Community College (DCC) in Poughkeepsie on Monday (June 16) to kick off the SUNY Reconnect initiative. This new program offers free college education to New Yorkers aged 25 to 55 who are pursuing degrees in high-demand fields. The initiative, supported by Governor Kathy Hochul, aims to provide free tuition, fees, books, and supplies to adult learners without a college degree.

Chancellor King highlighted the importance of the program in empowering adult learners and boosting the state economy. He stated, "The SUNY Reconnect program will help empower New Yorkers ages 25-55 to achieve their full potential, and power our state economy in a variety of high-demand, well-paying career fields." The tour at DCC also showcased the college's early childhood support programs, which are designed to assist student-parents.

DCC President Peter Grant Jordan expressed pride in hosting the launch, emphasizing the college's commitment to supporting adult learners through partnerships with organizations like Astor Head Start and DAY ONE Early Learning Community. These partnerships aim to provide childcare and educational opportunities for student-parents.

The SUNY Reconnect initiative is part of a broader effort to make higher education accessible and affordable for adult learners in New York. It is expected to attract a significant number of adult students when it begins in the fall of 2025. Dutchess County Executive Sue Serino and New York State Senator Rob Rolison both praised the program for breaking down barriers to education and supporting workforce development in the Hudson Valley.

The visit to DCC included a tour of the college's childcare facilities and a panel discussion on workforce readiness and expanding access to higher education for adult learners. The SUNY Reconnect program is seen as a crucial step in helping New Yorkers achieve upward mobility and strengthen their families.

Denise Plante