CUNY on the Concourse: Transforming Higher Education in the Bronx

A Catalyst for Educational Accessibility and Community Revitalization

CUNY on the Concourse, a vibrant academic hub in the heart of the Bronx, is redefining higher education in New York City. This innovative collaboration between the City University of New York (CUNY) and Bronx Borough President Ruben Diaz Jr. aims to enhance educational opportunities, foster economic development, and revitalize the local community.

Mission and Vision

CUNY on the Concourse envisions a dynamic educational landscape where Bronx residents have equitable access to affordable, high-quality higher education. Its mission is to:

• Expand educational pathways for underrepresented students
• Create a transformative learning environment
• Drive economic growth in the Bronx and beyond

Key Initiatives

CUNY on the Concourse has launched several key initiatives to achieve its goals:

1. Bronx Community College Expansion:
* The expansion of Bronx Community College’s Concourse campus to accommodate more students and offer new programs
* The creation of a new Institute for Urban Health Equity to address the health disparities faced by Bronx residents

2. Hostos Community College Co-Location:
* The co-location of Hostos Community College’s South Bronx campus with Bronx Community College
* The establishment of a shared facility for science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM) education

3. Educational Partnerships:
* Partnerships with local high schools to provide dual-enrollment opportunities for students
* Collaborations with community organizations to offer wraparound services to students

Impact on the Bronx

Since its inception in 2018, CUNY on the Concourse has made a significant impact on the Bronx community:

• Increased enrollment at Bronx Community College by over 20%
• Created over 1,000 new jobs in the area
• Attracted over $200 million in investment to the Bronx
• Reduced the achievement gap between Bronx students and their peers

Economic and Social Benefits

CUNY on the Concourse is not only transforming higher education but also driving economic and social development in the Bronx.

Economic Benefits:

• Increased tax revenue
• Creation of new businesses
• Attraction of skilled workers

Social Benefits:

• Improved educational attainment rates
• Reduced poverty and unemployment
• Enhanced community cohesion

The Future of CUNY on the Concourse

CUNY on the Concourse continues to innovate and expand its offerings. Future plans include:

• The creation of a new Transit Innovation Center to train students for careers in the transportation industry
• The development of a Bronx Arts and Culture Center to showcase the borough’s rich artistic traditions
• The establishment of a Bronx Health and Science Center to address the health needs of the community

Conclusion

CUNY on the Concourse is a testament to the transformative power of higher education. By providing accessible and affordable educational opportunities, this innovative partnership is empowering Bronx residents to achieve their full potential. Its impact extends beyond the classroom, revitalizing the local community and driving economic growth. As CUNY on the Concourse continues to grow and evolve, it will undoubtedly remain a beacon of hope and opportunity for the Bronx and beyond.

Tables

Table 1: CUNY on the Concourse Enrollment and Employment Data

Table 2: Economic Impact of CUNY on the Concourse

Table 3: Social Impact of CUNY on the Concourse

Table 4: Future Plans for CUNY on the Concourse