LOCH SHELDRAKE  — The opportunity to get that Associate’s Degree at SUNY Sullivan just became a lot easier.

Part of the New York State Opportunity Scholarship Program is Governor Kathy Hochul’s SUNY Reconnect Scholarship.

Come this fall semester, eligible individuals that are aged 25-55 with no previous college degree will be able to have tuition, fees, books and supplies completely covered as they pursue their degrees  for in-demand fields.

The aim? To empower residents in gaining valuable skills that will advance their future careers.

Throughout this summer, interested individuals will be able to attend information sessions that can assist them in the application process. 

“We’re doing a lot of prep right now to make things easier for adult students,” President David Potash told the Democrat. “The website will be regularly updated [as well]. These are imporant decisions for students, and we want to put this together to make things easier.”

The SUNY Sullivan programs available under SUNY Reconnect for Fall 2025 are as follows:

Alcoholism & Drug Abuse Counseling AAS

Computer Programming AAS

Computer Information Systems AAS

Construction Technology AOS

Green Building Technology AAS

Liberal Arts & Sciences: Childhood Education AA (pathway to teaching)

Medical Assistant AAS

Nursing AAS

Respiratory Care AAS

For the many folks in the area looking to improve their skills or change careers, SUNY Sullivan’s SUNY Reconnect program is promised to be a huge benefit. 

The program enables students to concentrate on their studies and accomplish their educational objectives by relieving them of the financial burden of tuition, fees, books, and supplies (after applicable financial aid).

“The college wins when our students win,” stated Potash. “When someone gets a free AAS degree, they’re gonna get a job and make money and help their community.”

In order to guarantee student success, SUNY Sullivan will additionally offer specialized advising and support services. These programs are promised [by the college] to give graduates excellent professional possibilities and are in-line with sectors of the economy that are expanding significantly in New York State.

Details on the application process, as well as other details, can be found at sunysullivan.edu/freeCC.

“Community colleges provide the best opportunities for a large amount of people,” stated Potash. “Higher ed isn’t really easy for a lot of folks [they have lots of responsibilities]. This is like a ‘Hey we’re gonna help you, maybe you do want to become a nurse’.”

“This is a really valuable opportunity. When we see those students succeed, it’s just a sweet thing.”