Jefferson and NY Army National Guard Celebrate Opening of New On-Campus Recruiting Office

Jefferson Community College (JCC) and the New York Army National Guard celebrated a milestone in their growing partnership with the official ribbon-cutting of a new on-campus National Guard Recruiting Office and a ceremonial signing between President Daniel J. Dupee, II, and Major General Michel Natali. 

Held in the Fireside Lounge of the Dean’s Collaborative Learning Center at JCC, the event brought together campus leaders, military representatives, and community members to recognize a shared commitment: expanding educational and career opportunities for students who wish to serve their state and nation.

President Dupee and Major General Natali formally signed a partnership agreement reaffirming their joint dedication to providing Guard-affiliated students with accessible, high-quality pathways to higher education. Following the ceremony, guests participated in a ribbon-cutting and tour of the College’s veteran's lounge, a space designed to support service members, veterans, and military-connected students as they pursue their academic goals.

“Our collaboration with the New York Army National Guard strengthens SUNY Jefferson’s long-standing mission to serve those who serve,” said President Dupee. “By welcoming the Guard onto our campus, we are expanding opportunities for students who want to advance their education while contributing to the defense and well-being of our state. This partnership ensures that service-minded students have a clear and supportive path to success.”

Major General Natali emphasized the importance of meeting students where they are. “Establishing a presence here at SUNY Jefferson allows us to connect directly with young men and women who are driven to serve,” he said. “This partnership helps ensure that our soldiers have access to the educational benefits, support systems, and career pathways they deserve.”

During the ceremony, Dr. Dupee and Major General Natali received congressional certificates from the office of Congresswoman Claudia Tenney commending them on their partnership and leadership in establishing the new on-campus National Guard recruiting office.

The event concluded with a National Guard “tabling takeover” in the McVean Student Lounge, offering students the opportunity to meet Guard members, learn about service options, and explore tuition benefits and career programs.

Jefferson’s commitment to military-connected students includes personalized advising, dedicated support spaces, flexible educational pathways, and strong relationships with Fort Drum and regional military partners. The new on-campus recruiting office further enhances the College’s ability to support students balancing academic goals with military service.

Learn more about Jefferson’s Veteran Services, military-connected resources, academic programs, and student support here. 

The New York Army National Guard offers free tuition to soldiers who attend college at a State University of New York (SUNY)/ City University of New York (CUNY) or community college while offering full-time SUNY/CUNY tuition reimbursement for higher education. Students may also receive student loan repayment options, tax-free stipends, and a part-time paycheck for their monthly service.  Offering low-cost healthcare, access to no-money-down VA mortgages, and paths towards an expedited security clearance, the NY Army National Guard has opportunities to help students start their career off strong.

To learn more about New York Army National Guard, contact Staff Sergeant Josiah Mann at (315) 886-9421 or josiah.j.mann.mil@army.mil.