The City University of New York (CUNY) commenced National Community College Month by recognizing 28 CUNY community college students who have been named as semifinalists for the Jack Kent Cooke Foundation’s prestigious Undergraduate Transfer Scholarship. Celebrating this achievement, CUNY is actively promoting its successful support program, CUNY ASAP, which has served over 100,000 students.
CUNY Chancellor Félix V. Matos Rodríguez commended the semifinalists, stating, “Congratulations are in order for CUNY’s Jack Kent Cooke Scholarship semifinalists, who embody the great dedication shown by community college students at CUNY and across the nation each and every day.” He emphasized the transformative impact of an associate degree on a student's life, opening doors to further education and career success.
In line with the celebration of National Community College Month, CUNY’s community colleges are hosting 58 events throughout April to showcase the benefits of pursuing an associate degree. These events include campus tours, information sessions, and open houses, aiming to assist prospective students and their families in making informed decisions about their educational paths.
The Jack Kent Cooke Undergraduate Transfer Scholarship is a competitive program offering financial support for community college students transitioning to four-year colleges. This year, 28 CUNY students have been chosen as semifinalists, with Borough of Manhattan Community College leading the way with 19 semifinalists. Finalists for the scholarship will be announced in May, with recipients eligible to receive up to $55,000 annually for up to three years towards a bachelor’s degree.
In conjunction with National Community College Month, CUNY is launching a campaign to raise awareness about CUNY ASAP, a program focused on aiding community college students in achieving timely graduation by providing essential resources. The campaign, featuring insights from CUNY ASAP student ambassadors and peer mentors, will run across New York City subway platforms and online.
The City University of New York, known as the nation’s largest urban public university, is a vital institution in New York City, supporting social mobility and diversity. With a rich history dating back to 1847, CUNY's commitment to providing quality and affordable education has propelled numerous low-income students into successful careers. The University's graduates contribute significantly to the city’s economic, civic, and cultural landscape, embodying CUNY’s mission of delivering excellent public education to all students.
For those interested in learning more about CUNY and its initiatives, visit their official website at https://www.cuny.edu.