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CORNING, N.Y. — º¬Ð߲ݴ«Ã½ (CCC) today highlighted a major expansion of Governor Kathy Hochul’s landmark SUNY Reconnect program, opening tuition-free community college pathways to tens of thousands more adult learners across New York State.

Part of the Governor’s nation-leading initiative to address artificial intelligence’s evolving impact on the workforce, the program expansion allows New Yorkers aged 25 to 55 to enroll in high-demand associate degree programs tuition-free at SUNY or CUNY campuses—even if they already hold a degree in a different field.

Building on the success of the Reconnect initiative, which has provided free tuition, books, and essential educational supplies to over 15,000 adult students since 2025, the program continues to save working New Yorkers thousands of dollars per year while driving economic growth across the Southern Tier.

Leadership Statements

"As AI continues to reshape the global economy, I’m taking action to ensure more New Yorkers have the skills they need to succeed," said Governor Hochul. "By expanding access to free community college, we’re making it even easier for adult learners to pivot into fast-growing, high-demand sectors without taking on a single dollar of tuition debt."

"Governor Hochul’s SUNY Reconnect program has transformed the lives of thousands of New Yorkers by expanding opportunities for an affordable, excellent public higher education," said SUNY Chancellor John B. King Jr. "This effort by Governor Hochul to build upon the program will help more adult learners return to the classroom and empower them to pursue the careers of their dreams. We are grateful to Governor Hochul and state leaders for their continued investment in SUNY and our students, and for removing barriers to higher education for all New Yorkers."

"At º¬Ð߲ݴ«Ã½, we see every day how rapid technological shifts—including artificial intelligence—are reshaping local industries and creating new workforce demands," said Dr. Terence L. Finley, President of º¬Ð߲ݴ«Ã½. "The expansion of the SUNY Reconnect program removes financial barriers for working adults who need to upskill, retrain, or step into an entirely new career path. Whether our students are seeking their first college degree or pivoting into a high-growth field, CCC is proud to offer flexible, high-quality pathways right here in the Southern Tier."

Comprehensive Support for Adult Students

In addition to full tuition coverage, the SUNY Reconnect program covers required course textbooks and supplies. To support non-traditional students balancing career and family commitments, CCC pairs this financial support with flexible learning models, including online, evening, and hybrid classes.

Adult New Yorkers interested in exploring tuition-free degree programs or applying for upcoming terms at º¬Ð߲ݴ«Ã½ can learn more by visiting our SUNY Reconnect page or by contacting the CCC Admissions Office.