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ESF Applauds Expansion of SUNY Reconnect, Increasing Access to Affordable Degrees in High-Demand Fields
SYRACUSE, N.Y. — June 16, 2026 — The SUNY College of Environmental Science and Forestry (ESF) today applauded Governor Kathy Hochul’s expansion of the SUNY Reconnect program, a significant step in increasing access to affordable, high-demand degree programs for adult learners across New York state.
Included in the 2026–27 Enacted State Budget, the expansion adds eligibility at additional SUNY institutions, including ESF, and continues to cover tuition, fees, books and supplies for qualified adults ages 25–55 pursuing associate degrees tied to workforce needs.
“ESF is proud to be part of this important expansion, which helps remove financial barriers and creates new pathways for adult learners to succeed,” said ESF President Joanie Mahoney. “Through opportunities like our associate degree program at the Ranger School, this initiative supports New Yorkers seeking careers in sustainability, natural resource management and environmental stewardship, while strengthening the state’s workforce in critical sectors.”
The expansion also broadens the range of high-demand fields supported by SUNY Reconnect, reinforcing New York state’s commitment to aligning higher education opportunities with evolving workforce demands.
Since its launch in 2025, SUNY Reconnect has enrolled more than 12,000 students statewide, building a strong pipeline of skilled professionals prepared to contribute to New York’s economy.
About SUNY ESF
The SUNY College of Environmental Science and Forestry (ESF) is dedicated to the study of the environment, developing renewable technologies, and building a sustainable and resilient future through design, policy, and management of the environment and natural resources. Members of the College community share a passion for protecting the health of the planet and a deep commitment to the rigorous application of science to improve the way humans interact with the world. The College offers academic programs ranging from the associate of applied science to the Doctor of Philosophy. ESF students live, study and do research on the main campus in Syracuse, N.Y., and on 25,000 acres of field stations in a variety of ecosystems across the state.