Community colleges in Central New York and the Finger Lakes are seeing some of the strongest enrollment rebounds in the state — and local leaders say it’s the result of targeted investment, expanded support, and a growing demand for career-focused programs.
In the latest report from the State University of New York, Cayuga County Community College led the way with a 27.7% jump in overall enrollment compared to last fall. Finger Lakes Community College followed closely with a 6.5% gain, while Onondaga Community College rose by 6.2%.
State officials say much of the momentum comes from Governor Kathy Hochul’s SUNY Reconnect program, which offers free tuition, books, and fees to adult learners without a degree.
“With the success of SUNY Reconnect and the continued rise in community college enrollment, more New Yorkers are taking advantage of the chance to earn a world-class, affordable degree,” Governor Hochul said.
SUNY Reconnect fuels regional growth
Launched in fall 2025, SUNY Reconnect is designed for adults between 25 and 55 who want to train for high-demand careers. More than 5,600 adult learners have already enrolled across the state, saving roughly $2,000 per year on average.
The results are especially visible in upstate communities. In addition to the overall enrollment surge, first-time undergraduate enrollment also rose 9.1% at Finger Lakes and 5.3% at Onondaga, according to SUNY data.
Cayuga County Community College, which saw the highest overall growth in the region, posted a 3.7% increase in first-time students this year and a 15.2% increase over the past five years.
“SUNY is on the move, and thanks to Governor Hochul’s leadership, more students are choosing to pursue an excellent and affordable education,” said SUNY Chancellor John B. King Jr.
Enrollment gains follow investment in equity
The Finger Lakes and Central New York regions didn’t just see gains in education — they also benefited from record state spending with minority- and women-owned businesses (MWBEs). According to New York’s 2025 MWBE Annual Report, $176 million in contracts went to MWBEs in the Finger Lakes, while Central New York saw over $112 million in MWBE spending.
At the same time, local MWBE certifications also grew. The Finger Lakes region now has 393 certified MWBE firms, and Central New York has 346 — a sign that more local entrepreneurs are joining the state’s procurement ecosystem.
“We’re making the MWBE program more accessible and impactful than ever before,” said Jason M. Clark, Executive Director of the Division of Minority and Women’s Business Development. “And we’re committed to ensuring the next generation of MWBE leaders have the tools and opportunities they need to thrive.”
Looking ahead
With SUNY enrollment rising for the third straight year and the MWBE program extended through 2028, state officials say the foundation is set for even more growth.
“Every New Yorker deserves the chance to build a better life through a quality education without breaking the bank,” Hochul said. “We are opening the door to opportunity for everyone.”
The SUNY application for Fall 2026 is now open. To learn more, visit suny.edu/apply.
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