Governor Kathy Hochul announced $8 million in annual funding for SUNY’s 30 community colleges, marking the first increase in nine years. The funds aim to bolster health care and mental health support. Of the total, $5 million will enhance health care education programs to help increase the state’s health care workforce by 20% in five years. The remaining $3 million will expand mental health services for students.
“This investment will help our community colleges prepare students for high-demand health care jobs and support their mental well-being,” Governor Hochul said. “It’s a crucial step for New York’s public education system and our health care sector.”
SUNY Chancellor John B. King Jr. celebrated the funding at SUNY Broome, which plans to expand its nursing program and hire a mental health case manager. “This increased funding will help fill critical health care roles and support student success,” King said.
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