The CUNY York College Podcast

York College Leads in Disability Advocacy, Student Empowerment, Campus Improvements, and Athletic Achievements in 2025

Good morning, York College community! It's Monday, September 8, 2025, and here's what's happening on campus.
Earlier this year, York College played a pivotal role in Student Empowerment Day 2025, a statewide event advocating for increased funding for disability services in higher education. The event gathered students, advocates, and policymakers to push for a $4.1 million increase in the state operating budget to enhance disability services across CUNY. York's strong presence was highlighted, with multiple attendees noting its engagement and leadership during the event. A significant moment came when CUNY Vice Chancellor Dr. Denise Maybank provided testimony from York's Center for Students with Disabilities, symbolizing the college's unwavering support for students with disabilities.
In May, York College students showcased their leadership at the 2025 CUNY Neurodiversity Conference held at the Borough of Manhattan Community College. Led by Charmaine Townsell, students from the CUNY Coalition for Students with Disabilities delivered a powerful presentation titled "CCSD’s Roadmap to Strengthening Neurodiverse Communities at the City University of New York." They emphasized the importance of registering with campus disability services and utilizing available accommodations, especially with finals approaching.
On April 30, York College hosted "York EmpowerED: Bridging the Gap from High School to College," welcoming over 160 students, families, educators, and college professionals. The event supported students with IEPs and 504 plans as they prepared for the transition to college, blending early outreach, practical resources, and meaningful student engagement. Highlights included dynamic peer-to-peer conversations and hands-on aviation experiences in York’s state-of-the-art flight simulation labs.
In February, York College's men's volleyball team made history by sweeping the CUNY Athletic Conference weekly honors for the first time since 2016. Senior David Heyliger Jr. was named Player of the Week, and freshman Sebastian Gomez earned Rookie of the Week. Their outstanding performances in matches against City College of New York and Sarah Lawrence College were instrumental in achieving this recognition.
The City University of New York has allocated $30 million to address groundwater flooding issues at York College. This funding is part of a broader effort to tackle infrastructure challenges across CUNY campuses. While this allocation is a reallocation from existing projects, it underscores the commitment to improving campus facilities and ensuring a safe environment for all students and staff.
In November 2024, Interim President Claudia Schrader delivered her first State-of-the-College address, outlining immediate and near-future goals for York College. Plans include enhancing enrollment and retention, expanding access to majors leading to high-demand careers, and developing online programs. Additionally, significant capital projects are underway, such as renovations to the cafeteria, upgrades to the Health and Physical Education Complex, and a $40 million renovation of the Milton G. Bassin Performing Arts Center.
That's all for today's update. Stay tuned for more news and events happening around York College.

York College News: Disability Advocacy, Neurodiversity, Campus Improvements, Rising Enrollment & Student Success – September 2025 Update

Good afternoon, York College community! It's Monday, September 1st, 2025, and here's what's happening on campus.
First, let's talk about the weather. Today in Jamaica, Queens, we're enjoying sunny skies with a comfortable 72 degrees Fahrenheit. As the day progresses, temperatures will rise to a pleasant 80 degrees by mid-afternoon, perfect for any outdoor activities you have planned.
In recent news, York College has been at the forefront of advocating for students with disabilities. Earlier this year, our college played a pivotal role in Student Empowerment Day 2025, a statewide event that gathered students, advocates, and policymakers to push for a $4.1 million increase in the state operating budget to enhance disability services across CUNY. York's strong presence was highlighted, with multiple attendees noting its engagement and leadership during the event. A significant moment came when CUNY Vice Chancellor Dr. Denise Maybank provided testimony from York's Center for Students with Disabilities, symbolizing the college's unwavering support for students with disabilities.
In May, York College students made a significant impact at the 2025 CUNY Neurodiversity Conference held at the Borough of Manhattan Community College. Led by Charmaine Townsell, students from the CUNY Coalition for Students with Disabilities delivered a powerful presentation titled "CCSD’s Roadmap to Strengthening Neurodiverse Communities at the City University of New York." They highlighted the challenges neurodiverse and disabled students face, emphasizing the importance of education in building economic mobility. Their message was clear: understanding and addressing these barriers is essential for a better future.
In infrastructure news, CUNY has allocated $30 million to address groundwater flooding issues at York College. This funding is a reallocation from existing projects and aims to provide long-term solutions to the college's infrastructure challenges. However, significant funding gaps persist, with CUNY estimating a $6.2 billion need for repairs across its facilities.
On the academic front, York College is proud to welcome a new cohort of students this fall. Among them is Lamis Fawaz, who was inspired to join York after seeing a CUNY advertisement. She plans to major in aviation management, taking the first step toward her goal of becoming an airline pilot. Lamis is also planning to reactivate York's chapter of Women in Aviation International, contributing to the vibrant student life on campus.
In enrollment news, York College has seen a 3.7% increase in transfer students in Fall 2023 compared to the previous year. This success is attributed to in-person outreach efforts, with Enrollment Management Director Nick Jones emphasizing the importance of tangible conversations and community engagement.
Looking ahead, while specific events at York College for September 2025 are still being finalized, students and faculty can participate in various CUNY-wide events. For instance, the CUNY Baccalaureate for Unique and Interdisciplinary Studies (CUNY BA) has several workshops scheduled, including a Study Abroad session on September 5th. These events are great opportunities to engage with the broader CUNY community.
That's all for now. Stay tuned for more updates, and remember to check the York College website and your student portals for the latest information on events and news.

York College Champions Disability Advocacy, Celebrates Student Achievements, and Secures Major Funding in 2025 Campus Highlights

Hello, York College community! It's Monday, August 25, 2025, and here's what's happening on campus.
Earlier this year, York College played a pivotal role in Student Empowerment Day 2025, a statewide event advocating for increased funding for disability services in higher education. The event gathered students, advocates, and policymakers to push for a $4.1 million increase in the state operating budget to enhance disability services across CUNY. York's strong presence was highlighted, with multiple attendees noting its engagement and leadership during the event. A significant moment came when CUNY Vice Chancellor Dr. Denise Maybank provided testimony from York's Center for Students with Disabilities, symbolizing the college's unwavering support for students with disabilities.
In May, York College students made a significant impact at the 2025 CUNY Neurodiversity Conference held at the Borough of Manhattan Community College. Led by Charmaine Townsell, students from the CUNY Coalition for Students with Disabilities delivered a powerful presentation titled "CCSD’s Roadmap to Strengthening Neurodiverse Communities at the City University of New York." They highlighted the challenges neurodiverse and disabled students face, emphasizing the importance of education in building economic mobility. Their message was clear: understanding and addressing these barriers is essential for a better future.
On April 30, York College hosted York EmpowerED 2025, an initiative supporting students with IEPs and 504 plans as they transition from high school to college. The event welcomed over 160 participants, including more than 100 high school students, many visiting a college campus for the first time. The program featured dynamic peer-to-peer conversations led by the CUNY Coalition for Students with Disabilities at York, hands-on aviation experiences in York’s state-of-the-art flight simulation labs, and robust dialogues with college leadership. The event underscored the importance of collaboration among high schools, colleges, and advocacy organizations to create equitable and informed transitions to college.
On July 24, York College's Student Wellness and Resources joined 457 participants from across CUNY to celebrate the 35th Anniversary of the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA). Hosted by the Queens College Committee for Disabled Students, the event reflected CUNY’s commitment to accessibility, advocacy, and partnership. York College proudly celebrated the achievements of Luis “Junior” Alvarez and Isaac Augustin, student leaders of the CUNY Coalition for Students with Disabilities at York, who were recognized with citations from multiple elected officials for their impactful leadership and advocacy.
In May, the City University of New York (CUNY) allocated $30 million to address groundwater flooding issues at York College. This funding is a reallocation from existing projects and aims to provide a long-term solution to the college's infrastructure challenges. CUNY officials emphasized the importance of strategic planning and collaboration among stakeholders to address pressing infrastructure issues across its campuses.
In February, York College's men's volleyball team achieved a significant milestone by sweeping the City University of New York Athletic Conference (CUNYAC) weekly honors for the first time since 2016. Senior David Heyliger Jr. was named Player of the Week, and freshman Sebastian Gomez earned Rookie of the Week. This marks the first time since 2016 that York College has earned two weekly awards, highlighting the team's dedication and talent.
That's all for now. Stay tuned for more updates, and remember to check the York College website and your student portals for the latest information on events and news.

York College Update: Neurodiversity Conference Success, Presidential Search, and Upcoming CUNY Events for August 2025

Hello, York College community! It's Monday, August 18, 2025, and here's what's happening on campus.
First, congratulations to our York Cardinals who made a significant impact at the 2025 CUNY Neurodiversity Conference held at the Borough of Manhattan Community College. Led by Charmaine Townsell, students from the CUNY Coalition for Students with Disabilities delivered a powerful presentation titled "CCSD’s Roadmap to Strengthening Neurodiverse Communities at the City University of New York." They highlighted the challenges neurodiverse and disabled students face, emphasizing the importance of education in building economic mobility. Their message was clear: understanding and addressing these barriers is essential for a better future.
In other news, York College is currently in the process of selecting a new president. The nationwide search has attracted a highly qualified pool of candidates. The Search Committee, chaired by Trustee Herminia Palacio, is reviewing and vetting candidates throughout the fall semester. The committee is committed to maintaining confidentiality during this process and appreciates the community's input and support.
Looking ahead, while specific events at York College for August 2025 are still being finalized, students and faculty can participate in various CUNY-wide events. For instance, the CUNY Baccalaureate for Unique and Interdisciplinary Studies (CUNY BA) has several workshops scheduled, including a New Student Orientation on August 19th and a Study Abroad session on September 5th. These events are great opportunities to engage with the broader CUNY community.
That's all for now. Stay tuned for more updates, and remember to check the York College website and your student portals for the latest information on events and news.

York College Updates: Neurodiversity Advocacy, Presidential Search, and Upcoming CUNY Events for Fall 2025

Hello, York College community! It's Monday, August 11, 2025, and here's what's happening on campus.
First up, congratulations to our York Cardinals who made a significant impact at the 2025 CUNY Neurodiversity Conference held at the Borough of Manhattan Community College. Led by Charmaine Townsell, students from the CUNY Coalition for Students with Disabilities delivered a powerful presentation titled "CCSD’s Roadmap to Strengthening Neurodiverse Communities at the City University of New York." They highlighted the challenges neurodiverse and disabled students face, emphasizing the importance of education in building economic mobility. Their message was clear: understanding and addressing these barriers is essential for a better future.
In other news, York College is currently in the process of selecting a new president. The nationwide search has attracted a highly qualified pool of candidates. The Search Committee, chaired by Trustee Herminia Palacio, is reviewing and vetting candidates throughout the fall semester. The committee is committed to maintaining confidentiality during this process and appreciates the community's input and support.
Looking ahead, while specific events at York College for August 2025 are still being finalized, students and faculty can participate in various CUNY-wide events. For instance, the CUNY Baccalaureate for Unique and Interdisciplinary Studies (CUNY BA) has several workshops scheduled, including a New Student Orientation on August 19th and a Study Abroad session on September 5th. These events are great opportunities to engage with the broader CUNY community.
That's all for now. Stay tuned for more updates, and remember to check the York College website and your student portals for the latest information on events and news.

York College Update: Neurodiversity Advocacy, Presidential Search Progress, and Upcoming CUNY Events for August 2025

Hello, York College community! It's Monday, August 4th, 2025, and here's what's happening on campus.
First up, congratulations to our York Cardinals who made a significant impact at the 2025 CUNY Neurodiversity Conference held at the Borough of Manhattan Community College. Led by Charmaine Townsell, students from the CUNY Coalition for Students with Disabilities delivered a powerful presentation titled "CCSD’s Roadmap to Strengthening Neurodiverse Communities at the City University of New York." They highlighted the challenges neurodiverse and disabled students face, emphasizing the importance of education in building economic mobility. Their message was clear: understanding and addressing these barriers is essential for a better future.
In other news, York College is currently in the process of selecting a new president. The nationwide search has attracted a highly qualified pool of candidates. The Search Committee, chaired by Trustee Herminia Palacio, is reviewing and vetting candidates throughout the fall semester. The committee is committed to maintaining confidentiality during this process and appreciates the community's input and support.
Looking ahead, while specific events at York College for August 2025 are still being finalized, students and faculty can participate in various CUNY-wide events. For instance, the CUNY Baccalaureate for Unique and Interdisciplinary Studies (CUNY BA) has several workshops scheduled, including a New Student Orientation on August 19th and a Study Abroad session on September 5th. These events are great opportunities to engage with the broader CUNY community.
That's all for now. Stay tuned for more updates, and remember to check the York College website and your student portals for the latest information on events and news.

York College News: Leading Disability Advocacy, Empowering Students, Celebrating Diversity & Success—Spring 2025 Highlights

Hello, York College community! It's Monday, July 28, 2025, and here's your latest campus news.
York College recently played a pivotal role in Student Empowerment Day 2025, a statewide event advocating for increased funding for disability services in higher education. The virtual gathering saw a full Zoom capacity of 300 attendees, including students, advocates, and policymakers, all pushing for a $4.1 million increase in the state operating budget to enhance disability services across CUNY. York's strong presence was highlighted, with multiple attendees noting its leadership during the event. A significant moment came when CUNY Vice Chancellor Dr. Denise Maybank provided testimony from York's Center for Students with Disabilities, with a York College pennant proudly displayed behind her, symbolizing the college's unwavering support for students with disabilities.
York College students took center stage at the 2025 CUNY Neurodiversity Conference held at the Borough of Manhattan Community College. Led by Charmaine Townsell, members of the CUNY Coalition for Students with Disabilities delivered a powerful presentation titled "CCSD’s Roadmap to Strengthening Neurodiverse Communities at the City University of New York." They used the phrase "The Math Ain’t Mathin" to express the disconnect many neurodiverse and disabled students experience when faced with financial, academic, and social systems that don't seem to add up. The session encouraged all CUNY students who identify as disabled to register with their campus disability services offices and take full advantage of available accommodations, especially with finals approaching.
On April 30, 2025, York College hosted York EmpowerED: Bridging the Gap from High School to College. The event welcomed over 160 students, families, educators, and college professionals, including more than 100 high school students, many visiting a college campus for the first time. The program supports students with IEPs and 504 plans as they prepare for the transition to college, blending early outreach, practical resources, and meaningful student engagement. Highlights included a dynamic peer-to-peer conversation led by the CUNY Coalition for Students with Disabilities at York and hands-on aviation experiences in York’s state-of-the-art flight simulation labs.
Spring 2025's New Student Orientation at York College was a day filled with excitement for incoming freshmen and transfer students. The new cohort was welcomed with essential information packets and encouraged to seek help early, as they listened to presentations from various offices and centers across campus. Dr. Karen Williams, Vice President of Student Affairs and Enrollment Management, emphasized the importance of utilizing available resources and seeking support when needed. A student panel of mentors encouraged incoming students to join mentorship programs, highlighting the advantages of seeking support early in their academic journey.
The York College Class of 2025 received a grand send-off at their recent Commencement held at UBS Arena on May 28. The event featured speakers celebrating the graduates' accomplishments and urging them to take their places in shaping a better world. CUNY Chancellor Félix Matos Rodríguez congratulated the graduates, acknowledging their perseverance through a once-in-a-century pandemic. York College President Dr. Claudia V. Schrader highlighted the diverse achievements of the class, including the youngest member at 20 years old and the eldest, 75-year-old James Norwood Williams, who earned his degree in Art and plans to pursue a master's degree.
Congratulations to Dr. Diao, who joined York College Library as Head of Cataloging in February 2016 and recently completed his doctoral journey at Capella University. His capstone project focused on improving technical services librarians' teaching preparedness through collective learning. Additionally, the library introduced the Information Literacy FYE Digital Badge, recognizing students who develop essential research and information skills during their first two semesters at York College. The program saw significant participation, with 22 students earning the badge by the end of the spring semester.
That's all for today's update. Stay tuned for more news and events happening at York College. Remember, your future takes flight here!

York College News: New President, Record $7.5M Gift, Student Achievements, Major Upgrades & National Recognition

Hello, and welcome to the latest episode of our campus news podcast. Today is Monday, July 21, 2025, and we have several exciting updates from York College to share with you.
First, we're thrilled to announce that Dr. Claudia Schrader has been appointed as the eighth president of York College. After serving as interim president since January 2024, Dr. Schrader's leadership has been instrumental in enhancing campus facilities and launching initiatives like the York Opportunity Network, which aims to position York College as a hub for academic and career advancement in Southeast Queens. Her permanent appointment took effect on May 1, 2025.
In a significant boost to our campus resources, New York City FC has pledged a $7.5 million philanthropic gift to York College. This generous contribution, announced on July 16, 2025, represents the largest philanthropic gift in the college's history. The funds will support health and wellness programs, athletics, and other student services, with $2 million available immediately to enhance our campus offerings.
Our students continue to excel on the academic front. At the CUNY Celebration of Undergraduate Research held on May 23, 2025, York College's own Dinah Mensah Attipoe won the research poster contest with her project titled "The Use of Artificial Intelligence (AI) to Transform the Aviation Industry." This achievement highlights the innovative research being conducted by our students and the support provided by our dedicated faculty advisors.
In athletics, the York College men's volleyball team made history earlier this year. For the first time since 2016, our athletes swept the City University of New York Athletic Conference (CUNYAC) Men's Volleyball weekly honors. Senior David Heyliger Jr. was named Player of the Week, and freshman Sebastian Gomez earned Rookie of the Week for their outstanding performances in matches played from January 27 to February 2, 2025.
On the infrastructure front, the City University of New York (CUNY) has allocated $30 million to address groundwater flooding issues at York College. This funding, discussed during a city council meeting on May 15, 2025, is a reallocation from existing projects and underscores the ongoing efforts to improve campus facilities and ensure a safe environment for all students and staff.
Lastly, York College continues to be recognized for its commitment to social mobility. In the U.S. News & World Report's 2025 Best Colleges rankings, several CUNY senior colleges, including York College, were lauded for their success in advancing social mobility among students. This recognition reflects our dedication to providing quality education and opportunities for all.
That's all for today's episode. Stay tuned for more updates, and remember, at York College, your future takes flight.

York College News: Record NYCFC Gift, Leadership Updates, Student Advocacy, Research Wins & Upcoming Conferences (July 14, 2025)

Good afternoon, York College community. Today is Monday, July 14, 2025, and here are the latest updates from our campus.
Currently, it's mostly cloudy with a temperature of 78 degrees Fahrenheit. As the day progresses, expect intermittent clouds with temperatures reaching up to 84 degrees. There's a chance of thunderstorms around 4 PM and again at 7 PM, so keep an umbrella handy if you're heading out later.
Earlier this year, York College played a pivotal role in Student Empowerment Day 2025, a statewide event advocating for increased funding for disability services in higher education. The event gathered students, advocates, and policymakers to push for a $4.1 million increase in the state operating budget to enhance disability services across CUNY. York's strong presence was noted, with multiple attendees highlighting its engagement and leadership during the event.
In a significant development, New York City FC announced a $7.5 million philanthropic gift to York College. This pledge, beginning with $2 million available immediately, will fund health and wellness, athletics, and other programs. This represents York College’s largest philanthropic gift since its founding and underscores the importance of strengthening the academic programs and services offered at York.
York’s Cardinals were front and center at the 2025 CUNY Neurodiversity Conference held at the Borough of Manhattan Community College. Led by Charmaine Townsell, students from the CUNY Coalition for Students with Disabilities delivered a powerful and deeply personal presentation, showcasing the leadership, insight, and advocacy of York students. Their session encouraged all CUNY students who identify as disabled to register with their campus disability services offices and take full advantage of available accommodations.
York College excelled at the CUNY Celebration of Undergraduate Research 2025, showcasing impressive research by students. Notably, Dinah Mensah Attipoe, an Aviation Management graduate, won the research poster contest with her project titled “The Use of Artificial Intelligence (AI) to Transform the Aviation Industry.” Her faculty advisors were Professor Billy Metallinos and Professor Selena Rodgers.
On April 30, York College hosted York EmpowerED: Bridging the Gap from High School to College. The event supported students with IEPs and 504 plans as they prepared for the transition to college, blending early outreach, practical resources, and meaningful student engagement. Over 160 students, families, educators, and college professionals gathered, with more than 100 high school students in attendance, many visiting a college campus for the first time.
The City University of New York has officially appointed Claudia Schrader as the eighth president of York College, cementing the interim role she has held since January 2024. The CUNY Board of Trustees approved her appointment on April 15, with the post becoming effective May 1. President Schrader brings more than two decades of higher education experience to her new role.
In May, the Finance, Higher Education, and Government Operations Committee of New York City convened to discuss the Fiscal Year 2026 Executive Budget, focusing on critical funding and infrastructure issues within the CUNY system. A significant portion of the meeting was dedicated to discussing the $30 million allocated for addressing groundwater flooding at York College. Officials clarified that this funding is a reallocation from existing projects rather than new investment.
Looking ahead, York College is set to host the International Conference on Business, Management, Economics, and Information Systems (ICBMEIS-2025). The conference will take place at the Department of Business and Economics, York College / CUNY, located at 94-20 Guy R. Brewer Blvd., Jamaica, New York. For those traveling, the venue is a 15-20 minute drive from John F. Kennedy International Airport and 40-50 minutes from LaGuardia Airport.
That's all for today's update. Stay safe, stay informed, and remember, at York College, your future takes flight.