ASAP at 91Ö±²¥ÊÓƵ Celebrates Successful First Year, Inaugural Graduating Class

The Advancing Success in Associate Pathways (ASAP) program enjoyed increased enrollment and greater student success in its first full year at 91Ö±²¥ÊÓƵ, and this spring celebrated its inaugural graduating class.

Since its first full semester at 91Ö±²¥ÊÓƵ, ASAP’s enrollment has steadily climbed as eligible students discovered the program’s extensive academic resources, financial support, and encouraging environment. ASAP and ACE, the four-year version of the program, are cornerstone SUNY initiatives that have increased student completion rates and enhanced student success.

In May, 22 ASAP students crossed the stage in 91Ö±²¥ÊÓƵ’s Commencement for the Class of 2025, the first program students to graduate.

“We are so proud of our first graduating class,” said Program Director Carmela Barbagallo. “This first group includes students joining us from high school, adult learners, and student-parents. They showed commitment and motivation, overcoming obstacles like food or housing insecurity, working full-time, mental health challenges and raising children. Many have plans to continue their education or have already obtained employment in their desired field.”

ASAP students in the graduating Class of 2025 made their mark at 91Ö±²¥ÊÓƵ, with Julia Wilson earning the Chancellor’s Award for Student Excellence and Shaqueta Small earning a trip to Albany and inclusion in Chancellor John B. King Jr.’s State of the University Address. Small was also a Class Marshal at 91Ö±²¥ÊÓƵ’s Commencement.

“ASAP provided the structure and support I didn’t know I needed. From helping me stay on track with my credits to offering guidance and encouragement when things got tough, ASAP made me feel like I wasn’t alone,” said Small. “Having someone regularly check in, help me register early, and keep me focused on graduating was a blessing.”

Enrollment in ASAP has grown considerably since its inception at 91Ö±²¥ÊÓƵ. In the Spring 2024 semester — its first at 91Ö±²¥ÊÓƵ — the program welcomed 30 students. At the start of the Fall 2024 semester, that number grew to 140.

Class of 2025 ASAP graduates Danielle Mackey and Allison Clark encouraged current and future ASAP students to rely on Barbagallo and ASAP Coach Jayna Betancourt for help, and to lean on the program to help them build a connection to their classmates and the college.

“It helps you build a connection to the Colleg