Recently, the New York State Higher Education Services Corporation applauded five years of progress in making higher education in the state more affordable, accessible and attainable.

The organization called out Gov. Kathy Hochul for her initiatives since taking office in 2021 to expand financial aid to reach more students and families, as well as opening new pathways for adult learners to pursue a college education.

In 2025, Governor Hochul made community college free for eligible New Yorkers ages 25 to 55 who are pursuing an associate degree in a high-demand field. The SUNY and CUNY Reconnect program covers tuition fees, books and supplies for eligible students.

We know these programs have been successful at SUNY Sullivan. This fall, the launch of SUNY ASAP complements the Academic Momentum Program, the Educational Opportunity Program, and SUNY Reconnect as part of a broader strategy serving students of all ages.

However, that’s not to say there aren’t any setbacks. We recently reported on the Sullivan County Legislature adopting the college’s 2026-2027 budget, including an increase in county funds.

The college has been operating on a tightened budget the last few years amid financial challenges, as well as reduced staff.

Nonetheless the college is still moving forward full steam ahead and reports that it served 1,976 students during the 2025–2026 academic year, more than 80% of them Sullivan County residents, and added new academic programs.

While overall enrollment has declined, due in large part to the closure of the dorms on campus, nursing enrollment is up more than 50% year-over-year with 31 nursing students graduated in May 2026, and 82 students currently enrolled in the RN program.

This is important because as we all know healthcare systems are struggling everywhere, especially in rural areas, and the added workforce is a positive.

So while SUNY Sullivan continues to contend with a financial crunch, we applaud them for supporting these crucial programs and initiatives that will benefit not only the students but our community as a whole.