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SUNY Orange Sees Continued Student Growth with Increased Enrollment in Winter Session


Orange County’s local community college has experienced a 22 percent increase in enrollment for its winter session compared to last year, as reported in a recent announcement by the State University of New York (SUNY) Orange.

This marks the eighth consecutive academic term in which the college has seen growth in enrollment for its credit programs following significant setbacks during the COVID-19 pandemic.

In the years leading up to the pandemic, community colleges across New York state had been experiencing a steady decline in enrollments.

As part of the recent recovery, SUNY Orange was ranked third among approximately 30 community colleges for its enrollment rebound velocity, according to data released by SUNY last fall.

“We’re observing a positive response from students, especially those at SUNY Orange, towards the courses we’re offering,” stated SUNY Orange President Kristine Young.

The college’s two-week winter session, akin to the summer session, allows students to earn credits while alleviating their workload during busier fall and spring terms.

During the winter session, SUNY Orange provides a variety of online general education courses, including subjects like English, history, biology, computer fundamentals, and sociology.

Nearly one in nine students participating in the winter session are enrolled at SUNY Orange, while a few students are transferring credits from other institutions.

“[Students] recognize the benefits of taking a class or two during their home breaks, which enables them to focus better in their longer semesters and achieve greater academic success,” Young mentioned.

Besides traditional degree programs and credit courses, the community college has made significant progress in expanding its noncredit workforce development initiatives in recent years, including a newly refurbished food and hospitality training center located on its Newburgh campus.

Since its establishment in June 1950, the college has relied on three primary financial pillars: county funds, state support, and student tuition along with private donations.

This year marks the college’s celebration of its 75th anniversary with the theme “Transforming Lives for 75 Years.”
Three notable events include a reunion at the Middletown campus, a formal gala at the West Hills Country Club, and an anniversary breakfast featuring tours of the Newburgh campus, scheduled for the weekend between May 16 and May 18, as detailed in a recent announcement.
Alumni are encouraged to share their personal experiences of how SUNY Orange has positively impacted their lives through video messages. Instructions for participation are available on the college’s website.



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