Cayuga Community College celebrated the success and expansion of its Advancing Success in Associate Pathways (ASAP) Program, a student support model aimed at increasing retention and graduation rates. The program, which has shown promising results in addressing opportunity gaps, was highlighted in a campus event Tuesday attended by state and local officials, SUNY leaders, and students.
“ASAP has made a remarkable impact on our students,” said Cayuga President Dr. Brian Durant. “It’s incredible to witness the confidence and progress students are gaining toward earning their degrees. We’re proud to offer this transformative program on our Auburn and Fulton campuses.”
Cayuga is one of 25 SUNY campuses participating in ASAP|ACE, a program that provides comprehensive support services, including financial aid for textbooks, groceries, transportation, and other costs of attendance, along with personalized academic advisement and career development. Since its launch, 140 students have enrolled at Cayuga with the goal of improving retention and boosting on-time graduation.
SUNY Chancellor John B. King Jr. emphasized the program’s importance in driving student success. “SUNY is committed to ensuring students thrive, and ASAP|ACE has proven itself as a powerful model for improving outcomes across campuses. We look forward to continued investment in the next generation of SUNY graduates,” King said.
ASAP|ACE was introduced to the SUNY system in early 2024, bolstered by Governor Kathy Hochul’s $75 million SUNY Transformation Fund and private grants. By Fall 2024, the program aims to enroll 4,200 students statewide.
Cayuga County Legislature Chair Aileen McNabb-Coleman, a proud alum of Cayuga, praised the program’s role in overcoming barriers that often hinder students from completing their education. “The ASAP Program helps students tackle personal, academic, and financial challenges,” McNabb-Coleman said. “This investment in our students is essential to preparing the workforce of tomorrow and promoting economic growth in Cayuga County.”
ASAP|ACE has a proven track record, initially developed by the City University of New York (CUNY) in 2007. The program has since been replicated at more than 20 colleges across seven states, serving over 100,000 students. It has been particularly effective in supporting underrepresented students and significantly improving degree completion rates.
Cayuga’s ASAP students come from diverse backgrounds but share a common goal: using education to achieve personal and professional success. Business Administration major Kati Champagne shared her appreciation for the program, saying, “The support and confidence I’ve gained through ASAP has given me the tools for success. It’s a welcoming environment where I can connect with other students and feel supported.”
Local lawmakers also praised the college’s efforts. “Congratulations to Cayuga Community College on the successful rollout of ASAP,” said State Senator Rachel May. “Community colleges play a critical role in helping students reach their goals and addressing workforce needs in our community.”
Assemblymember John Lemondes echoed the sentiment, highlighting the impact the program has had on over 100 students in just two semesters. “It’s inspiring to see the positive outcomes already emerging from ASAP, and I look forward to seeing where this will take these students in the future,” Lemondes said.
With continued investment and expansion, Cayuga Community College hopes to further improve graduation rates and provide vital support to students through the ASAP|ACE program.
For more information about ASAP at Cayuga Community College, visit Cayuga’s ASAP page or contact Program Director Carmela Barbagallo at [email protected].
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