Governor Hochul announced more than 16,500 students have applied for New York's taxpayer-funded community college program covering full tuition for adult learners pursuing in-demand fields.
ReConnect covers tuition, books, fees and supplies for adult New Yorkers ages 25-55 expanding access to higher education and career mobility to millions of adult learners.
Mary M. Feder, Director, College Relations and Publications for Suffolk County Community College told South Shore Press that “As of August 21, 2025, the number of students enrolled at Suffolk who currently meet all eligibility requirements for the SUNY Reconnect program totals 648.”
The idea behind SUNY ReConnect is to incentivize education and training in fields that have shortages in today’s economy. Adults who are looking to change careers, maybe they were downsized from another job, or perhaps they are underemployed or just haven’t decided what they want to do yet have an affordable opportunity in ReConnect to get training for a career that will last a lifetime.
When asked if this is what SCCC expected for enrollment in the ReConnect program, Feder said, “It’s too new for us to have had any expectations. But, we are happy with the boost to our enrollment.”
“The cost of pursuing a degree should never be a barrier for New Yorkers – we are proud to provide an opportunity for millions of CUNY and SUNY students to achieve their dreams,” Governor Hochul said. “I am committed to making education more affordable and accessible, and the Reconnect program continues to pave the way forward for students as they enter our State’s future workforce.”
Eligible high-demand fields include:
- Advanced manufacturing
- Artificial Intelligence
- Cybersecurity
- Engineering
- Technology
- Nursing and allied health fields
- Green and renewable energy
- Pathways to Teaching in shortage areas