Hobart and William Smith Colleges and SUNY Schenectady County Community College have announced a new transfer agreement designed to streamline the path to a bachelor’s degree for community college graduates.
Under the agreement, SUNY Schenectady graduates who complete an associate degree with a 3.0 grade point average or higher will be guaranteed admission to HWS. Transfer students accepted with a GPA above 2.7 will also be guaranteed a scholarship of at least $30,500.
The agreement was signed Wednesday during a ceremony on the SUNY Schenectady campus by SUNY Schenectady Vice President for Academic Affairs Mark Meachem and HWS Provost and Dean of Faculty Sarah Kirk.
The partnership is intended to create a clear and accessible pathway for students seeking to continue their education at HWS, college officials noted.
“This agreement reflects Hobart and William Smith’s deep commitment to educational access, opportunity and partnership,” HWS President Mark Gearan said. “By guaranteeing admission and meaningful scholarship support for SUNY Schenectady graduates, we are creating a clear, affordable pathway for talented students to pursue a bachelor’s degree.”
SUNY Schenectady President Steady Moono said the agreement recognizes the academic rigor of the college’s programs and supports students during a critical transition point.
“It recognizes the academic rigor of SUNY Schenectady programs across various disciplines and affirms that our students are well prepared to thrive at a highly respected liberal arts institution,” Moono said. “It also reflects a shared commitment to student success by guaranteeing admission for qualified graduates and providing financial support.”
Officials said the partnership aims to reduce financial and logistical barriers for students transferring from community college to a four-year institution.
More information about the agreement is available here.
