JCC Students Share Insight with SUNY Chancellor John B. King, Jr.

State University of New York (SUNY) Chancellor John B. King, Jr. visited Jefferson Community College (JCC) on Monday, July 21, 2025, during his statewide SUNY Reconnect Tour. His visit highlighted expanded opportunities for adult learners and veterans.

SUNY Reconnect, part of Governor Kathy Hochul’s New York State Opportunity Promise initiative, enables eligible adults ages 25–55 to earn a degree in high-demand fields such as technology, education, engineering, and nursing—at no cost. SUNY Reconnect does not just cover tuition; it covers tuition, fees, books, and supplies.

Chancellor King also discussed the expansion of the New York State Veterans Tuition Award (VTA) program. While eligibility previously focused on combat veterans, the expanded program now includes all honorably discharged veterans who completed at least four years of active-duty service, as well as those who served in Vietnam, the Persian Gulf, or Afghanistan.

“SUNY’s community colleges are a driving force toward greater upward mobility and career success, and for our military-affiliated students, the Governor’s SUNY Reconnect and expanded Veterans Tuition Awards Program make college even more accessible,” said SUNY Chancellor King. “I look forward to continuing the SUNY Reconnect Tour, which reinforces Governor Hochul’s commitment to making higher education opportunities available to New Yorkers looking to transform their lives.”

“We were honored to welcome Chancellor King to Jefferson Community College,” said Dr. Daniel J. Dupee, II, President. “His visit underscored the critical role SUNY plays in expanding access to higher education—whether for adult learners seeking a fresh start or veterans who have served our country. These state initiatives are transforming lives, and we’re proud to be part of that mission.”

Five Jefferson students, including veterans, adult learners, and a recent nursing graduate, participated in a roundtable discussion with Chancellor King, sharing their experiences at Jefferson and the impact of accessible higher education.

Nathaniel Steelman, a veteran and JCC student, said, “I was honored to sit in a room with the Chancellor. He wanted to hear from every individual and receive feedback on the different issues discussed. It was quite exciting to hear the different initiatives they are pursuing and the initiatives targeting the veteran community.”

Duane Broadwell, veteran and JCC student, added, “You could tell the group was genuinely engaged and respected what we had to say. It was clear our input would be thoughtfully considered in shaping meaningful change.”

One of 30 SUNY community colleges, Jefferson serves approximately 2,500 students from Jefferson, Lewis, Oswego, and St. Lawrence counties, including many service members and their families. JCC is a designated 2025 Top 10 Gold-Level Military Friendly® School and a 2025 Military Spouse Friendly® School by VIQTORY, publisher of G.I. Jobs® and Military Spouse® magazines, and a 2024 Best for Vets college by Military Times. Accredited by the Middle States Commission on Higher Education, JCC offers more than 50 associate degrees, certificates, and microcredentials for career preparation and transfer.

JCC will hold a SUNY Reconnect information session on July 29 at 4:30 p.m. Individuals may register to attend at www.sunyjefferson.edu/freecc.