“We are dedicated to fostering an environment where every student has the tools they need to succeed,” said Bonita R. Durand, Buffalo State University's interim president, of SUNY's Advancing Completion through Engagemtn program. Earlier this year, SUNY Chancellor John King called for all 64 SUNY campuses to embrace new programs to support the most challenged students, financially and otherwise, with help from $75 million in grants to implement two proven programs.
This past week, officials from the University at Buffalo, Buffalo State University and SUNY Erie Community College gathered at Buffalo State to spotlight their efforts to implement the ACE and ASAP programs on their campuses, opening new doors and providing new “wraparound services” to help at-risk students succeed. ACE, which stands for Advancing Completion through Engagement, targets bachelor’s degree students who qualify for federal Pell Grants that go to students with the highest financial need. The program provides additional tuition and fee support for students who stay on track, as well as travel and textbook expenses, personalized advisement, academic support and career development activities.
Students are required to meet frequently with their advisement teams, who assist with academic goals, as well as potential barriers such as child care, food and other needs. ASAP, which stands for Advancing Success in Associate Pathways, provides the same services for students pursuing associate degrees at c.
