York College Leads in Disability Advocacy, Student Empowerment, Campus Improvements, and Athletic Achievements in 2025

08/09/2025 3 min Temporada 1 Episodio 1
York College Leads in Disability Advocacy, Student Empowerment, Campus Improvements, and Athletic Achievements in 2025

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Episode Synopsis

Good morning, York College community! It's Monday, September 8, 2025, and here's what's happening on campus.



Earlier this year, York College played a pivotal role in Student Empowerment Day 2025, a statewide event advocating for increased funding for disability services in higher education. The event gathered students, advocates, and policymakers to push for a $4.1 million increase in the state operating budget to enhance disability services across CUNY. York's strong presence was highlighted, with multiple attendees noting its engagement and leadership during the event. A significant moment came when CUNY Vice Chancellor Dr. Denise Maybank provided testimony from York's Center for Students with Disabilities, symbolizing the college's unwavering support for students with disabilities.



In May, York College students showcased their leadership at the 2025 CUNY Neurodiversity Conference held at the Borough of Manhattan Community College. Led by Charmaine Townsell, students from the CUNY Coalition for Students with Disabilities delivered a powerful presentation titled "CCSD’s Roadmap to Strengthening Neurodiverse Communities at the City University of New York." They emphasized the importance of registering with campus disability services and utilizing available accommodations, especially with finals approaching.



On April 30, York College hosted "York EmpowerED: Bridging the Gap from High School to College," welcoming over 160 students, families, educators, and college professionals. The event supported students with IEPs and 504 plans as they prepared for the transition to college, blending early outreach, practical resources, and meaningful student engagement. Highlights included dynamic peer-to-peer conversations and hands-on aviation experiences in York’s state-of-the-art flight simulation labs.



In February, York College's men's volleyball team made history by sweeping the CUNY Athletic Conference weekly honors for the first time since 2016. Senior David Heyliger Jr. was named Player of the Week, and freshman Sebastian Gomez earned Rookie of the Week. Their outstanding performances in matches against City College of New York and Sarah Lawrence College were instrumental in achieving this recognition.



The City University of New York has allocated $30 million to address groundwater flooding issues at York College. This funding is part of a broader effort to tackle infrastructure challenges across CUNY campuses. While this allocation is a reallocation from existing projects, it underscores the commitment to improving campus facilities and ensuring a safe environment for all students and staff.



In November 2024, Interim President Claudia Schrader delivered her first State-of-the-College address, outlining immediate and near-future goals for York College. Plans include enhancing enrollment and retention, expanding access to majors leading to high-demand careers, and developing online programs. Additionally, significant capital projects are underway, such as renovations to the cafeteria, upgrades to the Health and Physical Education Complex, and a $40 million renovation of the Milton G. Bassin Performing Arts Center.

That's all for today's update. Stay tuned for more news and events happening around York College.

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