Photo: Klaus Vedfelt / DigitalVision / Getty Images
SUNY Chancellor John King Jr. visited Ulster County on Monday (November 3) to promote the state's free community college program for adult learners. The visit to SUNY Ulster's Kingston Center is part of King's ongoing Reconnect Tour, which highlights the benefits of New York's SUNY Reconnect initiative. This program, which began in the fall of 2025, offers free tuition, books, and supplies to adults aged 25 to 55 who do not have a college degree and wish to pursue an associate degree in high-demand fields.
During his visit, Chancellor King praised SUNY Ulster’s advanced manufacturing program, which equips students with the skills needed to enter or advance in high-tech manufacturing careers. The program is part of a broader effort to support adult learners in fields such as artificial intelligence, cybersecurity, and green energy. According to the Daily Freeman, SUNY Ulster received $100,000 to support the implementation of the Reconnect program, along with $35,000 to upgrade equipment for its Network Administrator program.
Additionally, a $50,000 grant was announced to expand child care services at the Kingston Center, ensuring that adult learners have the necessary support to pursue their education. Chancellor King emphasized the program's impact, stating, "Governor Hochul’s SUNY Reconnect program is proving to be life-changing for adult learners pursuing degrees in high-demand fields."
Ulster County Executive Jen Metzger expressed gratitude for the initiative, calling it an "important pathway to a community college degree and a meaningful, family-sustaining career." The program aligns with SUNY Ulster's mission to empower individuals and strengthen the community, as noted by SUNY Ulster President Alison Buckley.