SUNY Unveils Exciting Program Expansion and Rising Momentum
SUNY Fredonia Unveils Expanded ACE Program to Enhance Student Success
In a significant move to bolster student support, the State University of New York at Fredonia recently announced the expansion of its Advancing Completion through Engagement (ACE) program. This initiative will now provide resources to an additional 250 students, ensuring they receive the assistance necessary to achieve their academic goals and graduate on time.
Enhancing Academic Support and Resources for Students
The announcement was made during a vibrant campus event, underscoring the essential role of targeted fiscal, educational, and holistic support in fostering student engagement. According to SUNY Fredonia President Stephen H. Kolison Jr., the ACE program is vital to the university’s commitment to student success. “One of the most important things we do at SUNY Fredonia is to ensure that the students we admit are successful in achieving their dreams of a Fredonia degree,” he stated.
This expansion comes as part of the broader SUNY ASAP (Accelerated Study in Associate Programs) and ACE initiative, which began system-wide implementation in 2024 and now supports thousands of students across various campuses. Through the ACE program, eligible students will gain access to a comprehensive suite of resources designed to eliminate obstacles that hinder their educational progress.
Key Benefits of the ACE Program
The ACE initiative provides crucial financial support covering:
- Textbooks
- Groceries
- Transportation costs
- Additional educational expenses
Along with financial aid, students can benefit from:
- Personalized academic advisement
- Career development opportunities
- Academic support tailored to individual needs
As a testament to its success, SUNY Fredonia’s ACE program quickly met its initial enrollment targets, establishing a waitlist and expanding from 150 to 250 participants, all while ensuring continuous funding for current students.
Positive Outcomes and Student Testimonials
Program leaders have noted a notable improvement in credit accumulation and GPAs among ACE participants compared to non-participants, reflecting the program’s positive impact. Erin Mroczka, Assistant Vice President for Retention and Special Initiatives, remarked on the effectiveness of the ACE model: “ACE works because it removes real barriers and pairs that support with proactive, relationship-based advising.”
Current students echo this sentiment. Giulianna Lalomio, a junior from Gowanda, praised the ACE program for its role in enhancing her leadership skills and providing invaluable financial aid. Lucien Oakley, a sophomore from Springville, highlighted how ACE’s support was crucial during challenging times, allowing him to continue his education.
State Support for ACE Program Expansion
The recent allocation of $12 million in the 2025-26 state budget by Governor Kathy Hochul and state leaders will further empower SUNY Fredonia to assist more students in achieving their degree aspirations. This investment aims to increase the total number of ASAP and ACE program participants statewide, with expectations of reaching 10,000 by Fall 2026.
Dr. Jennifer Bashant, University Director of ASAP and ACE, emphasized the proven benefits of the program, saying students involved in ACE tend to complete more credits and are more likely to graduate on schedule. “At the heart of this program are the relationships formed and the trust that is cultivated,” she noted, assuring students they are not alone in facing academic challenges.
Commitment to Student Success at SUNY Fredonia
SUNY Chancellor John B. King Jr. reiterated the system’s dedication to student success through the expansion of the ACE program, highlighting the collaborative efforts of faculty and staff at SUNY Fredonia. “Our expansion of the proven ASAP and ACE programs across our system ensures our students are on track to complete their degree on time and pursue their aspirations,” King affirmed.
The announcement event was attended by key dignitaries, including Dr. Kathryn Kendall, Vice President for Enrollment Management and Services, Michael Ferguson, Fredonia Village Mayor, and other local leaders, demonstrating a robust community commitment to educational advancement and student support at SUNY Fredonia.
