SUNY Sullivan Number One for Increase in New Student Enrollment

SUNY Sullivan proudly announces a groundbreaking achievement as it emerges with the largest year-over-year increase in enrolling new students among all State University of New York community colleges. SUNY Sullivan experienced an unprecedented surge in new student enrollment, increasing new student enrollment by over 20%, compared to a 3.9% average increase in SUNY community college enrollment across the network, marking a significant milestone in its commitment to accessible and quality higher education.

For the first time in a decade, year-to-year total SUNY system-wide student enrollment increased, up 1.1 percent overall from Fall 2022 to Fall 2023 for a total of 367,542 students. Undergraduate first-time enrollment – a leading indicator – was up across all sectors at 4.3 percent, a promising increase as SUNY works to fulfill Governor Kathleen Hochul’s vision to transform higher education into a path to upward mobility. The technology sector showed the strongest increase at 13.3 percent, followed by community colleges at 3.9 percent. 

“New York continues to make important progress towards building the best public higher education system in the country and as a result, more young students are choosing SUNY,” Governor Kathleen Hochul said. “I know firsthand that access to higher education is an engine for social mobility. That’s why I will continue to make important investments in our higher education systems and take steps to ensure college is affordable and accessible for students of all backgrounds.”   

SUNY Chancellor John B. King, Jr. presented the enrollment data during a special meeting of the SUNY Board of Trustees. His presentation can be found at this link here, which provides a breakdown per sector and by campus. 

SUNY Chancellor King said, “There is a place at SUNY for every New Yorker, and the great news is that more students across the state are discovering their SUNY success stories. Governor Hochul and the legislature have made a significant investment in higher education, and we are pleased to see more New Yorkers taking advantage of everything our campuses have to offer—an excellent and affordable education that can empower them to pursue their career and life goals.” 

Dr. Casey Crabill, SUNY Sullivan Officer in Charge, expressed enthusiasm about the record-breaking enrollment increase, stating, “We are immensely proud of this achievement, which reflects our relentless pursuit of academic excellence and commitment to serving our community. SUNY Sullivan’s unwavering dedication to providing accessible, high-quality education is evident in the trust and confidence shown by our growing student body.”

The significant rise in new student enrollment highlights SUNY Sullivan’s proactive approach to meet the evolving needs of students, including flexible learning options, robust academic programs, and a supportive campus environment fostering a nurturing and inclusive community. And the Sullivan Promise Scholarship has played a critical role in making higher education more accessible and attainable for Sullivan County students from various financial backgrounds, ensuring that financial constraints don’t hinder their pursuit of academic success.

For more information about SUNY Sullivan and its programs, please visit sunysullivan.edu or contact the admissions office at admissions@sunysullivan.edu.

About SUNY Sullivan

SUNY Sullivan is the leader of innovative higher education and a catalyst for workforce development throughout the Sullivan Catskills and beyond. Our diverse community cultivates personal growth and professional advancement, preparing students for success in a sustainable and interconnected world. A forward-looking, top-tier community college in New York, SUNY Sullivan offers over 40 degree programs, certificates, and micro-credentials for learners at all levels of their educational goals. We value critical inquiry and creativity while supporting our students in a culture of inclusion and respect. For more information, visit sunysullivan.edu

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October 17, 2023.