Policy

Governor Kathy Hochul’s FY 2026 Enacted Budget reflects meaningful progress toward addressing the financial and structural barriers that continue to prevent underrepresented students from accessing and completing higher education. At uAspire, we are encouraged by expanded investments in New York’s public higher education systems, including $1.3 billion in capital funding and $114 million in new operating aid for SUNY, alongside increased base and capital support for CUNY. These investments are critical to sustaining affordability and student success across the state.

We strongly support the inclusion of our key priority - a $20 million ($12 million SUNY, $8 million CUNY) expansion of the ASAP and ACE programs, which are proven initiatives to support persistence and degree completion. Alongside this, the budget includes a $47 million($28.2 million SUNY, $18.8 million CUNY) allocation to launch a statewide Free Community College initiative for adults without degrees, targeting learners aged 25–55 in high-demand fields. While implementation details are still emerging, this effort reflects a growing recognition of the need to reach students beyond traditional age groups and support pathways to upward mobility. We hope to see future iterations of this work expand in both scope and accessibility to better meet the diverse needs of all learners wanting to access higher education.

We are glad to see the $64.6 million investment in the College in High School Opportunity Fund, which will help remove financial barriers for low-income students earning college credit while still in high school—an important step toward building momentum and confidence in the college journey. 

While this budget makes important progress, we recognize the need for sustained investment in higher education equity, especially as the state faces long-term fiscal challenges. These programs must be built for the long haul if we’re to meaningfully address the systemic inequities that hinder economic mobility for too many students. We urge lawmakers to continue advancing targeted, evidence-based solutions that remove financial barriers and expand access to degrees with lasting value. Every student—regardless of age, income, or background—deserves the opportunity to pursue and complete a college education.

- Jaclyn Piñero, CEO