Program reaches 300 students as university expands support for student success

UTICA, NY – SUNY Polytechnic Institute (SUNY Poly) is celebrating the continued growth of its Advancing Completion through Engagement (ACE) program, which has expanded to serve 300 students during the 2026-27 academic year.

SUNY Poly initially launched ACE with a cohort of 32 students in Spring 2024. The program quickly expanded to 150 students in Fall 2024, grew to 250 students last year, and now serves 300 students this fall, reflecting SUNY Poly’s continued investment in providing students with the resources and support they need to succeed.

“Reaching 300 ACE students is an exciting milestone for SUNY Poly and, more importantly, means that even more of our students have access to the resources and individualized support that can help them succeed,” said SUNY Poly President Dr. Winston Soboyejo. “Student success is at the heart of our mission, and ACE demonstrates what is possible when we work intentionally to remove barriers and provide students with the support they need to remain on track, complete their degrees, and prepare for what comes next.”

SUNY launched its Advancing Success in Associate Pathways (ASAP) and ACE programs in 2024 to provide participating students with comprehensive support designed to address barriers to degree completion. Through an additional $8 million allocated in the FY2026-27 Enacted State Budget, ASAP|ACE is expanding to serve 10,000 students at 44 SUNY campuses by the Fall 2026 semester.

“SUNY is committed to the success of every student, and the continued expansion of ASAP|ACE program will help participating students complete their degree on time, achieve their dreams, and move forward on a path to upward mobility,” said SUNY Chancellor John B. King Jr. “I am thrilled that through the support of Governor Kathy Hochul and the State Legislature these programs will serve 10,000 students across the state and serve as a model for other institutions to follow.”

At SUNY Poly, ACE provides participating students with personalized advisement, academic assistance, career development opportunities, and financial support to help cover costs such as textbooks, groceries, transportation, and other expenses associated with attending college. Together, these resources are designed to help students maintain academic momentum and complete their degrees on time.

The program is led at SUNY Poly by ACE Director Dawn Burns, with advisors Mya Kyaw and Alexandria Butka providing individualized guidance and support to participating students.

“ACE is about meeting students where they are and making sure they know they have someone in their corner throughout their college journey,” said Burns. “As the program has grown, we have been able to reach more students, build stronger relationships, and create a community where students feel supported and connected. We are excited to welcome this year’s ACE students and continue helping them work toward their academic, personal, and professional goals.”

SUNY Poly celebrated the program’s continued growth during an event on campus Wednesday, September 23, bringing together university leaders, students, ACE staff, SUNY representatives, and community and government partners.