Together, we’re doing great things.

Enrollment is up. Access is broad. Educational quality is high. Independent colleges and universities continue to shine in New York State and on the national stage. At a time when New York’s economy is slowly recovering and efforts are underway to reverse the flow of jobs, industry, and New Yorkers out of the state, our private, not-for-profit campuses are a dynamic and integral part of the solution. New York State is now the primary destination for full-time freshmen from other states, the majority of whom – 83 percent – attend Independent Sector campuses. Our colleges and universities are also attracting more students of color: One in four enrolled students is African-American, Asian, or Hispanic, nearly double the percentage enrolled in 1980.

New York’s Independent Sector is the key to our state’s revitalization. Our campuses, in serving a public purpose, continue to increase access and educate students from all income and demographic groups. We strive to enable students to attend the college of their choice and help New York State stretch its higher education dollar. And we continue to be a strong catalyst for economic development, energizing our communities, attracting and graduating talented students, and generating innovative ideas and research.

Independent colleges and universities are committed to their communities – inspiring high schoolers to pursue a college education, striving to help New Yorkers cross over the digital divide, and protecting and promoting natural resources. They're also advancing the treatment of mental illness and providing fertile ground for the next great idea. We invite you to visit our campuses to learn more about these initiatives and other programs.

 


Abraham M. Lackman
President, Commission on Independent
Colleges and Universities