Paul Krugman, Nobel laureate and Professor of Economics at the Graduate Center of the City University of New York | CUNY Graduate Center
Paul Krugman, Nobel laureate and Professor of Economics at the Graduate Center of the City University of New York | CUNY Graduate Center
CUNY Chancellor Félix V. Matos Rodríguez appeared before a joint legislative public hearing of the New York State Senate and Assembly to discuss the Fiscal Year 2026 Executive Budget Proposal. During his testimony, he expressed gratitude for the support from Governor Hochul and the legislature towards public higher education.
Chancellor Matos Rodríguez highlighted several achievements of The City University of New York (CUNY) over the past year, including increased student enrollment, expanded programs, and significant philanthropic contributions. He noted that CUNY has become a leading research institution with record-high external funding for research activities.
The Chancellor emphasized CUNY's efforts in career-connected programs and partnerships with employers to enhance students' career opportunities. He mentioned initiatives like York College’s Aviation and Aerospace Academy and Bronx Community College’s online certificate in Nuclear Medicine Technology as examples of such programs.
He also outlined plans for "CUNY Beyond," a strategy aimed at connecting classrooms to careers throughout students' academic journeys, set to launch in Fall 2025. This initiative will include offering career-connected college courses in high schools, expanding paid internships, and engaging more with employers.
In discussing budgetary matters, Chancellor Matos Rodríguez thanked Governor Hochul for an increase in operating support for senior colleges by $96 million but noted an additional $34 million is needed to fully cover wage increases. He also appreciated one-time funding provided for retroactive wage increases and bonuses.
The executive budget allocates nearly $500 million in new capital funding for infrastructure investments across CUNY's campuses. This funding aims to maintain campuses in good repair and make strategic investments in research facilities.
Chancellor Matos Rodríguez concluded by acknowledging the challenges faced during budget season but expressed confidence in continued support from state allies committed to public higher education.
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