SUNY JCC Part of Community College Reconnect Program that Empowers Adult Learners with Free Tuition

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SUNY JCC Part of Community College Reconnect Program that Empowers Adult Learners with Free Tuition
Wednesday, June 11, 2025
College-wide
By Vinny Pezzimenti

SUNY Jamestown Community College is proud to announce its participation in SUNY Reconnect, a State University of New York initiative designed to help adults ages 25 to 55 return to college tuition-free and complete associate degrees in high-demand fields. 

SUNY Reconnect is part of Governor Kathy Hochul’s effort to expand access to higher education and build a more resilient workforce across New York. With millions of adults in the state who started college but never finished, this program removes a major barrier, cost, and helps non-traditional students take the next step in their educational and career journeys. 

“At Jamestown Community College, we know that life sometimes gets in the way of completing a degree, but we also know the incredible value a college education brings to individuals and their families,” said Daniel DeMarte, JCC president. “SUNY Reconnect makes it possible for adults to return to college without the burden of tuition and with the full support of a college committed to their success.” 

Participants must be New York state residents between the ages of 25 and 55 who have not already earned a college degree. They must also enroll full or part time in an approved SUNY community college associate degree program.  

Eligible JCC programs include those in advanced manufacturing, computer technology, education, and health. Visit sunyjcc.edu/Reconnect for a complete list of eligible programs. 

JCC offers flexible pathways to degrees in these fields — all of which align with local workforce needs. Students enrolled through SUNY Reconnect will benefit from academic advising, career coaching, tutoring, and options for online, hybrid, and in-person courses. 

The program covers the costs of tuition, fees, books, and supplies after all grants, scholarships, and other forms of tuition assistance are applied. To be eligible for financial aid requires the completion of FAFSA and TAP applications. Visit sunyjcc.edu/admissions for more information and to get started on applying to JCC. 

“Returning to college as an adult can feel overwhelming, but students don’t have to navigate it alone,” said Jessica Kubiak, JCC vice president of Academic Affairs. “We provide personalized support every step of the way, from choosing the right program to building confidence in the classroom, so that adult learners can thrive academically and professionally.” 

Fall 2025 enrollment is open. Prospective students can learn more by visiting sunyjcc.edu/reconnect or contacting the JCC admissions team at Admissions@mail.sunyjcc.edu or 716.338.1001.