Syracuse (WSYR-TV) - The Chancellor of SUNY is in Syracuse on Monday in an effort to draw attention to the benefits of the state university system.
The visit comes at a time when the state university system’s budget is being reduced, with more than $500 million in cuts over the past three years. Despite the cuts, SUNY schools are not lacking for students.
Many of the four-year SUNY schools are turning away applicants in record numbers. The SUNY system has become more inviting as its academic reputation improves, alongside its schools’ affordability.
The “Power of SUNY” event is an effort to inform the community that the system offers a viable, affordable education and that the state should stop trying to balance its budget on the backs of the schools.
SUNY ESF professor Rich Beal says community outreach is what set his school apart.
“We’ve got projects all throughout the community, throughout New York State. And this is a chance for the community to come out and see what we do,” Beal said.
The participating schools include Cayuga Community College, Cortland State, Empire State College, SUNY ESF, Onondaga Community College, SUNY Oswego, Tompkins Cortland Community College, and Upstate Medical University.
The event began at 9 a.m. at the Sheraton Syracuse University Hotel and Conference Center.
