K 381: Memorializing Governor Kathy Hochul to proclaim April 2025 as Community College Month in the State of New York

 Assembly Resolution No. 381 BY: M. of A. Hunter MEMORIALIZING Governor Kathy Hochul to proclaim April 2025 as Community College Month in the State of New York WHEREAS, It is the custom of this Legislative Body to recognize official months that are set aside to increase awareness of institutions which contribute to their communities and enrich the lives of the citizens of New York State; and WHEREAS, Attendant to such concern, and in full accord with its long-standing traditions, it is the sense of this Legislative Body to memorialize Governor Kathy Hochul to proclaim April 2025 as Community College Month in the State of New York, in conjunction with National Community College Month; and WHEREAS, Established in 1950, Jamestown Community College was the first community college in New York State; it was the first locally sponsored community college in the State and one of the first in the United States to be part of a statewide system; its creation marked the beginning of a movement to expand affordable, accessible higher education opportunities for New Yorkers; and WHEREAS, Through the decades, New York State's community college system has grown significantly; today, the State University of New York (SUNY) system operates 30 colleges across the State, and the City University of New York (CUNY) system includes seven colleges, bringing the total to 37 public community colleges; and WHEREAS, These institutions serve hundreds of thousands of students annually, providing an affordable and flexible path to higher education and workforce development; community colleges have been instrumental in offering career training, associate degrees, and transfer opportunities to four-year institutions; they also support local economies by partnering with businesses and industries to prepare a skilled workforce; and WHEREAS, Community colleges in New York State have had a tremendous impact on individuals and communities, serving as a gateway to higher education, especially for first-generation college students, working adults, and those individuals who are seeking career advancement; and WHEREAS, Community colleges are also centers for workforce training, offering programs in health care, technology, and skilled trades that meet regional labor market needs; and WHEREAS, Additionally, community colleges promote equity in education by keeping tuition costs lower than traditional four-year institutions, ensuring that more New Yorkers have access to quality education; and WHEREAS, April is Community College Month, a time to recognize and celebrate the vital role these institutions play in strengthening local economies, expanding access to education, and fostering lifelong learning; their commitment to affordability, workforce development, and community engagement makes them a cornerstone of New York State's higher education system and a vital resource for the State's future; now, therefore, be it RESOLVED, That this Legislative Body pause in its deliberations to memorialize Governor Kathy Hochul to proclaim April 2025 as Community College Month in the State of New York; and be it further RESOLVED, That a copy of this Resolution, suitably engrossed, be transmitted to The Honorable Kathy Hochul, Governor of the State of New York.