Dear Members of the SUNY Oswego Community–
As we near the end of the semester, I am excited to reflect on the progress and investments that continue to shape our institution and positively impact our students. We have much to be grateful for this year, thanks to the SUNY Transformation Fund and the support of Governor Kathy Hochul, the members of the State Legislature, and SUNY Chancellor John B. King, Jr.
This critical investment has enabled us to launch initiatives that bolster student success in support of our Vision 4040 goals to create a more educated region and boost economic development in Central New York:
- Creating Seamless Transfer Pathways: We’ve strengthened relationships with our nearby community colleges through a collaboration called the Central New York Transfer Collaboration, which is simplifying transfer processes from Cayuga, Jefferson, and Onondaga community colleges to our university.
- Strengthening Support: SUNY Oswego proudly leads in participation with SUNY’s Advancing Completion through Engagement (ACE) initiative, enrolling 271 students this semester, the highest within the SUNY system. ACE provides invaluable wraparound support services, including academic and financial resources, helping to keep students on track toward graduation.
- Expanding Internships: SUNY’s Internship Impact Funds have created equitable access to experiential learning. In its inaugural semester, we awarded $171,000 in wages and scholarships to 207 students. By providing financial support for internships, we bridge academic learning and career readiness, especially for students who might otherwise face financial barriers.
- Improving Access to Financial Aid: The FAFSA and Empire State Service Corps initiatives ensure that students can access financial aid and develop a spirit of civic responsibility. Our students have been actively helping peers navigate the FAFSA process and participating in service across New York. Through events, zoom conferences, and in-person meetings, we assisted 106 students and parents in completing their FAFSA and TAP applications. Thanks in part to these efforts by our students and professional financial aid team, FAFSA submissions in Oswego County have increased by seven percent year over year.
- Bolstering Mental Health Services: Recognizing the vital role of mental health in student success, we have expanded support through the SUNY Transformation Fund. Chancellor King chose SUNY Oswego to announce this $10 million systemwide initiative last February, where he visited with students and counselors at our Mary Walker Health Center. Thanks to this funding, we are adding counselors, including specialists for marginalized students, commenced tele-counseling to improve access for online and Syracuse campus students, extended summer counseling, and increased pay for per diem staff. These enhancements ensure mental health resources are accessible, equitable, and effective for all.
- Taking Aim at Retention and Graduation Rates: A $1.9 million federal Title III grant is helping us boost retention and graduation rates by addressing equity gaps in academic performance and improving faculty development. This investment is vital to our goal of reaching an 80 percent retention rate over the next five years, and ultimately realizing Vision 4040. Thanks to this support, we are implementing early intervention strategies, enlisting faculty support for course redesign and more effective pedagogy and enhancing academic advising.
It has been a busy but fulfilling time indeed, as my engagements for the month confirm.
Next month, we look forward to celebrating more than 475 graduates who will join a spirited corps of over 95,000 SUNY Oswego alumni dedicated to regional economic development and social mobility. As part of our commitment to educational attainment throughout our region, our Shineman Oswego Scholarships will continue to empower Oswego County residents, providing financial support to students who represent the future of Central New York.
I am immensely grateful for the collective dedication of our faculty, staff, and students, whose efforts make these achievements possible. Together, we are moving toward a brighter future for SUNY Oswego and our region.
Happy Thanksgiving to you and your loved ones. May this season bring joy, rest, and a renewed sense of gratitude.
Remain well,
Peter O. Nwosu
President