Suffolk County Community College recently announced the successful implementation of the State University of New York's (SUNY) Advancing Success in Associate Pathways (ASAP) program across its three campuses. This initiative is part of a broader rollout involving 25 SUNY-affiliated institutions throughout New York State. The program, inspired by the City University of New York's ASAP model, aims to improve student completion rates and reduce opportunity gaps.
Since 2007, CUNY's ASAP has served over 90,000 students and been replicated in seven states. In spring 2024, SUNY’s ASAP programs enrolled about 4,200 students, offering services like textbook coverage and transportation assistance to help alleviate financial barriers for full-time study.
At Suffolk County Community College, there are currently 160 students participating in the ASAP program. Early results from the college’s spring cohort show a retention rate of 91% for fall 2024 and an average GPA of 3.11 among participants.
Dr. Edward Bonahue, President of Suffolk County Community College, stated at a press conference that “ASAP removes financial barriers, provides structured pathways to help students gain and maintain academic momentum," emphasizing its role in increasing timely graduation rates.
Donna Linderman, SUNY Senior Vice Chancellor for Student Success added: "At the heart of SUNY's mission is a deep commitment to student success." She acknowledged current and future students as central to this mission.
Students Ashley Virgile and Vanessa Fernandez shared their experiences with the program during the event. Virgile expressed gratitude towards his advisor Sonya Lorraine for her support in navigating his educational journey. Fernandez highlighted how financial aid from ASAP allowed her son to enroll in campus childcare while she pursued her studies.
Suffolk County Community College remains committed to fostering student achievement through such initiatives as part of its extensive educational offerings within the SUNY system.