More than 150 students, families, and educators gathered on Friday at York College for the third annual York EmpowerEd: Bridging the Gap from High School to College, hosted by the Center for Students with Disabilities (CSD) in partnership with Admissions. The program introduced attendees to academic opportunities, campus life, and the support available as students transition to college.
Charmaine Townsell, senior director of Student Wellness and Resources, and Anthony Davis, director of Admissions and Enrollment Management, served as emcees, with support from YC Radio. Attendees heard from York College leaders and partners committed to expanding college access, including keynote speakers Rachel Rippey-Cheun of NYC Public Schools and Shah Powell-Scott, director of the Queens Transition and College Access Center. Remarks were also shared by Dr. George White, dean; Kevin Korber (CSD); Dr. Hopeton Allen, director of SEEK; and Dr. Billy Metallinos, assistant professor of Aviation, Business and Economics.
Dr. Metallinos showcased York College’s aviation flight simulator and demonstrated a drone, highlighting CUNY’s only Aviation program and a full-tuition scholarship for the MS in Aviation Management secured by President Claudia Schrader. The event also welcomed NYS Assemblymember Khaleel Anderson, a longtime champion of the initiative, who encouraged students to pursue higher education and take advantage of the support available to help them succeed.
Music played as speakers approached the podium, with attendees singing and dancing along. Assemblymember Anderson was visibly moved when his mentor, former NYC Councilmember and current Distinguished Lecturer at Queens College James Vacca, made yet another appearance in support of the program and shared words of encouragement with students. Student leaders from CCSD@York also led a breakout session on navigating college life and accessing campus resources, in which Dr. Rachel Walton shared information about opportunities through Student Activities.
The program was developed by Townsell through the Center for Students with Disabilities as a University-wide Special Project to strengthen the transition from high school to college for students, including those with disabilities. During the event, Raymond Perez from the CUNY Central Office announced that the initiative will move forward to expand as CUNY EmpowerEd.
Townsell reflected on the community effort behind the work: “At CSD, we know this work takes community, and we are grateful for the many people who continue to show up for our students,” Townsell said. “Under President Schrader’s leadership, we continue strengthening a community that celebrates disability pride and leadership. We hosted more than 400 attendees at our Career Resource Expo, 300 joined us on Student Empowerment Day, and over 150 students, families, and educators participated in York EmpowerEd on a Friday. Now that’s community.”
“Programs like this show what is possible when students, families, educators, and colleagues come together to support the transition to college. I’m proud to have been part of this work,” said Davis.
Now in its third year, the program continues to grow in participation and impact, helping students and families feel informed, supported, and confident as they take the next step toward college.
Mar 10, 2026 4:41 PM