Tompkins Cortland Community College has received an $8,000 grant to turn a furnished structure near its athletics facility into an outdoor learning space for students and the community.
The Dryden college is one of 14 campuses receiving grants through SUNY’s Outdoors for All program, which began in 2025 to expand outdoor programming and access to the state’s natural spaces.
The space sits near the tennis courts, just outside the athletics facility. The college expects the project to be completed in the spring, when the space will be available to reserve like other campus classrooms, according to a news release.
SUNY’s announcement describes plans for a mural, directional and identifying signs, and classroom reservation designation at the TC3 site.
College President Amy Kremenek said the project will give students and community members another way to enjoy the area’s natural setting and reflects the college’s belief that learning can take place beyond a traditional classroom.
Grants support outdoor access
SUNY Chancellor John King Jr. announced this year’s awards Oct. 14. Each of the 14 selected campuses will receive up to $8,000 for projects or activities supporting sustainability, accessibility, wellness and community development.
King said the program aims to give students hands-on outdoor learning experiences that connect them with one another. Across the system, the grants can pay for outdoor programming, new or improved learning and recreation spaces, accessibility work, equipment and supplies.
The program supported 13 campuses in its first year. This year’s projects include campus gathering spaces, trails and outdoor excursions, alongside TC3’s planned classroom.
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