July 2025

Dear Colleagues,

At the July Board of Regents meeting, following a thoughtful and comprehensive presentation and discussion, the Board officially adopted the updated Portrait of a Graduate. Developed through extensive stakeholder engagement, research, and evidence-based practices, the Portrait of a Graduate outlines six essential attributes—academic preparedness, creativity, critical thinking, communication, global citizenship, and reflective, future-focused mindsets—all grounded in culturally responsive-sustaining education. This forward-looking framework reflects our shared commitment to preparing students not only for college and careers, but for life as engaged, thoughtful citizens in a rapidly changing world.

The adoption of the Portrait of a Graduate is a key milestone in the broader Graduation Measures Initiative, launched in 2019. Informed by the recommendations of the Blue Ribbon Commission and the Department’s New York Inspires plan, the initiative aims to create a more flexible and inclusive education system. As we move forward together, the Portrait of a Graduate will serve as a guide as the state implements new graduation requirements, ensuring that all students are equipped with the knowledge, skills, and dispositions needed to thrive in school, work, and civic life.

Sincerely,

Betty A. Rosa

Commissioner

The 2025 Summer Food Service Program, which will provide free meals to approximately 400,000 young people, kicked off this month at nearly 2,500 sites statewide. It is anticipated that more than 20 million nutritious meals will be served to New York State’s children this summer.

An interactive USDA online map helps families search for a service site by address, city, or zip code. Families can find directions to nearby meal sites, as well as their hours of operation and contact information. Locations and service times will be updated throughout the summer.

Historic news! Jennifer Saunders has been appointed Director of the New York State Museum—the first woman to lead the institution in its nearly 200-year existence. A visionary museum leader, she brings over two decades of experience in inclusive storytelling, public engagement, and innovation. Welcome, Ms. Saunders! 

At the New York State My Brother’s Keeper (MBK) Symposium, young men from across the state came together not just to connect—but to rise.

From powerful speeches to heartfelt moments, MBK is more than a program—it's a movement. It’s a space where youth can lead with purpose, advocate with passion, and inspire with authenticity. Hear directly from MBK students as they share how this transformative movement empowers them to grow, lead, and unlock their fullest potential.

The 2025 New York State Summer School of the Arts (NYSSSA) kicked off this month at SUNY Fredonia! 145 talented students in grades 8–12 are diving into four weeks of intensive training in Visual Arts, Media Arts, and Theatre—guided by top professionals.

Thanks to the expanded Empire State Arts Scholarship Program, more young artists than ever can access year-round arts education.

The New York State Office of Cultural Education is excited to announce the launch of a new video series, “Look at This!”—a lively, behind-the-scenes journey that pulls back the curtain to show viewers the often unseen quirky, captivating, and surprising collections housed in the state’s cultural institutions.

“Look at This!” spotlights the unexpected and conversation-starting objects from the extensive holdings of the New York State Museum, Library, and Archives.

Subscribe to the State Museum’s YouTube channel today and get ready to Look at This!

The New York State Museum is proud to announce its latest exhibit in recognition of the upcoming 250th anniversary of the signing of the Declaration of Independence. “George Washington: An American Paradox” examines the multifaceted legacy of the nation’s first president.

The exhibit features several of the most significant items from the New York State Museum and New York State Library collections, including Washington’s dress sword and surveying equipment.