SUFFERN, NY— Rockland Community College marked the opening of its new SUNY Reconnect Office this month, a move aimed at expanding access to higher education for adult learners across Rockland County and the surrounding region.
The new office, located in the lobby of the college’s Technology Center, was officially unveiled during a ribbon-cutting ceremony that brought together college administrators, students, and community partners. College leaders said the space is designed to serve as a one-stop resource for adults who are starting college for the first time or returning to complete a degree.
The SUNY Reconnect Office provides individualized assistance with admissions, academic programs, financial aid, and ongoing student support. By centralizing these services, RCC officials said the college hopes to reduce common barriers faced by adult learners and offer a clearer path toward degree completion and career advancement.
SUNY Reconnect, launched statewide this year, offers free tuition to New York residents between the ages of 25 and 55 who have not previously earned a college degree and who enroll full or part time in an associate degree program tied to a high-demand field. At Rockland Community College, eligible programs currently include automotive technology, cybersecurity, education, engineering science, environmental science, healthcare science, information technology, math and computer science, nursing, and occupational therapy assistant.
Rockland Community College President Dr. Bill Mullaney said the initiative reflects the college’s broader mission to serve learners at every stage of life.
“At Rockland Community College, we remain committed to supporting every learner at every stage of life,” Mullaney said. “The SUNY Reconnect Office gives adult learners direct access to the resources, guidance, and support they need to acquire the skills that lead to family-sustaining wages in high-demand careers.”
SUNY Chancellor John B. King Jr. also praised the opening of the new office, noting its role in expanding educational and economic opportunities statewide. He said the SUNY Reconnect program supports upward mobility for adult learners and helps strengthen New York’s workforce through access to high-quality education.
The SUNY Reconnect Office is staffed by trained ambassadors who are available to meet with prospective and returning students Monday through Thursday from 1 p.m. to 8 p.m. Additional information about the program is available through Rockland Community College’s website, by email, or by phone.