The State University of New York (SUNY) has announced new financial support and technical assistance aimed at improving student retention and completion rates through its Academic Momentum Campaign. This initiative was highlighted in Chancellor John B. King Jr.’s 2025 State of the University Address as part of ongoing efforts to advance evidence-based strategies for student success across SUNY campuses.
The campaign expands on the achievements of ASAP|ACE, a nationally recognized program focused on college retention and completion. Currently, over 7,000 SUNY students participate in ASAP|ACE, made possible by investments from Governor Kathy Hochul and the state legislature. The Academic Momentum Campaign seeks to extend successful elements of these programs—such as high-quality advising and personalized student support—to more campuses within the system.
In addition to leveraging internal models, SUNY institutions will incorporate best practices from colleges nationwide that have demonstrated strong results in retaining and graduating students, especially those who face significant barriers to higher education.
“Nobody goes to college thinking they will drop out, and SUNY’s Academic Momentum Campaign is furthering our efforts to help every student thrive at SUNY campuses,” said Chancellor King. “SUNY is providing historic levels of support to make sure our campuses can help each student succeed academically and grow personally. Through evidence-based strategies and strong support from SUNY, we know that our students will benefit from this initiative.”
Stony Brook University President Andrea Goldsmith commented on the significance of the campaign for her institution: “Student success is at the heart of our mission at Stony Brook because our students are the future innovators and leaders within industry, academia, government, and their communities across our great state and around the country. I am grateful for the opportunity to collaborate closely with Chancellor King and the SUNY Board of Trustees as they launch the Academic Momentum Campaign. This ambitious initiative will ensure that we are supporting and preparing all Stony Brook students for professional and personal success while bringing our university to new heights of excellence and impact.”
SUNY campuses are currently developing action plans targeted at increasing retention and graduation rates for students entering in Fall 2026. To assist these campus-led initiatives, SUNY will provide individual technical assistance from Student Success staff, access to written resources, webinars on evidence-based practices both within SUNY and nationally, as well as opportunities to participate in regional planning summits.
“We are committed to supporting every SUNY student to succeed and make the most of their experience at the SUNY institution of their choice, and the Academic Momentum Campaign is part of that ongoing effort,” stated the SUNY Board of Trustees. “We will work with each of our campuses to ensure all SUNY students have the support and services they deserve to thrive academically and be ready to move forward after graduation.”
