By Dana Brown, Empire Opportunity Program Director

SUNY Empire State College is committed to programs that empower the people and strengthen the communities we serve in New York, online, and throughout the world. That’s why the college created the Empire Opportunity Program (EOP), which provides eligible students with the information, tools, and support they need to successfully complete coursework needed to earn their SUNY-quality associate or bachelor’s degree.

Beginning this spring, the college will accept up to 60 EOP students and is open to students at all stages of life and learning for full time or part time study. Students accepted into EOP will begin enrollment in the Fall 2020 term.

If accepted into the EOP, what can students expect?

• Targeted and ongoing financial assistance, such as stipends for full-time and part-time students to help with the overall cost of attendance.
• Enhanced additional academic support services from professional and peer tutors who work exclusively with Empire Opportunity Program students.
• A dedicated student success mentor to provide guidance from enrollment through commencement.
• Summer Orientation with workshops on topics like individualized degree planning and strategies for effective communication to prepare for success in college.
• Specialized year-round EOP workshops on topics ranging from resume writing to self-marketing on social media.
• Early Degree Planning to help students meet their personal, professional, and academic goals.

“After working as an Academic Advisor for over 14 years, I have experienced the positive aspects of EOP on many levels. This program is going to help a lot of people and I am honored to bring this opportunity to our SUNY Empire State College community,” said Dana Brown, Empire Opportunity Program Director, who is leading SUNY Empire’s EOP implementation. “Our team, our resources, and our commitment are backed by the strength of the SUNY brand. Put these all together and we have a solid foundation for EOP success.”

“I commend SUNY Empire for recognizing the need to expand access to financial assistance to the students from disadvantaged communities in Buffalo and across New York state,” said Assembly Majority Leader Crystal Peoples-Stokes. “Our students are determined to get their degree, and bring that perseverance to the workforce."

For more information or to apply, please visit the EOP website or email eop@esc.edu