Governor Kathy Hochul Announces SUNY and CUNY Reconnect Initiative for Adult Learners

Strategic Insights -

New York Governor Kathy Hochul welcomed SUNY and CUNY Reconnect adult students who are pursuing free community college degrees in high-demand fields. The SUNY and CUNY Reconnect initiative provides free tuition, fees, books, and supplies for adults aged 25-55 who do not already have a college degree and are pursuing an associate degree in a high-demand field. Launched following the passage of the FY26 Enacted Budget, SUNY and CUNY Reconnect now makes it possible for eligible adult students to pursue degrees in high-demand fields for free at all SUNY and CUNY community colleges.

Key Takeaways:

  • Over 16,500 adult learners applied throughout the State for the SUNY and CUNY Reconnect program.
  • The program will fund degrees in high-demand fields including advanced manufacturing, artificial intelligence, cybersecurity, engineering technology, nursing and allied health fields, and green and renewable energy.
  • In addition to SUNY and CUNY Reconnect, the FY26 Enacted Budget provides $13 million in increased operating aid to community colleges.
  • The Budget also maintains the 100 percent community college funding floor, which protects community colleges from $124 million in lost direct state tax support.
  • The FY26 Enacted Budget continues to build upon Governor Hochul's investments in SUNY and CUNY's community colleges, including $754 million for community college programs, a $60 million increase from FY25.
  • SUNY serves about 1.4 million students amongst its entire portfolio of credit- and non-credit-bearing courses and programs, continuing education, and community outreach programs.
  • Research expenditures system-wide are nearly $1.16 billion in fiscal year 2024.

Statistics:

  • Over 16,500 adult learners applied throughout the State for the SUNY and CUNY Reconnect program.
  • $13 million in increased operating aid to community colleges is provided by the FY26 Enacted Budget.
  • The Budget maintains the 100 percent community college funding floor, protecting community colleges from $124 million in lost direct state tax support.
  • $754 million for community college programs is invested in the FY26 Enacted Budget, a $60 million increase from FY25.
  • Research expenditures system-wide are nearly $1.16 billion in fiscal year 2024.

Sources:

  • [New York Office of the Governor, "Governor Hochul Welcomes SUNY and CUNY Reconnect Adult Students," (2025)]
  • [Assemblymember Alicia Hyndman, Statement, (2025)]
  • [State University of New York, About, (no date)]
  • [State University of New York, FY26 Enacted Budget, (no date)]