UAlbany celebrates graduates and new dual partnership with SUNY Adirondack

Albany, NY (WRGB) — On Thursday, U-Albany's 180th Commencement got underway, where graduates walked across the stage in front of their parents to receive their degrees. More than 4,600 graduates are set to receive their degrees this year, and with a new dual admission program in place, college officials expect that number to grow.

"Yeah, we here, we made it!" exclaimed Chukwudi Ogechukwu, a UAlbany graduate.

"Experiencing life, I’m pretty happy," added UAlbany graduate Benji Smith.

"I’m so excited oh my goodness, excited I was nervous at first but feel like a weight has been lifted off my shoulders," shared Anaijaa Bippy and Gabrielle Whyt, UAlbany graduates.

"I want to thank my family for supporting me, wohooo!" exclaimed Lindsey Ciez, a UAlbany graduate.

This partnership is between UAlbany and SUNY Adirondack. It's aimed at supporting community college students by giving them the opportunity to earn a four-year degree following their associates.

School officials are aiming to support community college students hoping to earn four-year degrees like this year’s graduates.

"Some of our most accomplished student leaders have come to us from community colleges elsewhere in the state," said Jordan Carleo-Evangelist, an Albany spokesperson.

UAlbany students expressed their support for the new program, happy to see their school providing more opportunities for students to earn degrees like themselves.

"It’s amazing because a lot of people struggle to find a school to go to afterward, it’s a roadblock," Gabrielle shared.

"That’s a great opportunity. A lot of people, community colleges are their only option," Chukwudi added.

"Transferring here is obviously amazing. They have a lot of good opportunities here with programs," Lindsey said.

According to a spokesperson, first-generation students made up about a third of this year’s graduating class.

"If we could remove those hurdles, anything we can do for those first-generation students will help them move along their academic course," Carleo-Evangelist said.

The program will give students access to UAlbany’s on-campus events, academic advising, and support services.

SUNY Adirondack is the latest school with this program, with UAlbany also having dual admission programs with Hudson Valley Community College, the Borough of Manhattan Community College, and Fulton Montgomery College. UAlbany officials hope to see more students with degrees.