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"Campus Update" is a weekly e-newsletter published by LaGuardia's Division of Communications and External Affairs to provide news and information to the college community.
"Campus Update" will be published every other week during the summer of 2026. Publication dates will be June 25, July 9, July 23, August 6, August 20, and September 3, after which the newsletter will resume weekly publication.
| | The Division of Communications and External Affairs offers various additional resources to help you share news with the campus, including an event calendar, photography, graphic design, and more. | | |
This year, 2,264 students earned degrees—up 17% from last year—with more than 1,350 crossing the stage. “It’s a good time to be at LaGuardia,” President Kenneth Adams told nearly 6,000 guests gathered on the Quad at Queens College. “Enrollment is up, grades are up, participation in clubs and sports is up, fundraising is up—and the Knicks are champions. Go Knicks!” The Class of 2026 reflects the diversity of both the College and New York City, representing 79 countries, with 40% born outside the United States. The top majors were Business Administration, Computer Science, Psychology, Criminal Justice, and Accounting. About 10% began their journey in Adult and Continuing Education (ACE) programs, learning English, earning a GED, or completing workforce training that provided college credits. Click here for an infographic on the Class of 2026. During the ceremony, CUNY Chancellor Félix V. Matos Rodríguez presented an honorary Doctor of Humane Letters degree to Mitchell Draizin, an LGBTQIA+ advocate and founder of the Concordia Philanthropic Fund.
Watch a recording of Thursday's festivities here.
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LaGuardia has successfully completed its Tomorrow Campaign 2.0 – exceeding its original goal of raising $15 million and unlocking a challenge grant of $10 million – bringing the grand total to more than $25 million. The Tomorrow Campaign 2.0 was launched in 2025 with an anonymous donor pledging a $10 million challenge grant if the college could raise an additional $15 million. LaGuardia raised $15,621,000 (as of June 9, 2026), to unlock the challenge grant, for a grand total of more than $25 million. “We are grateful to the Foundation Board of Directors and all of the donors who contributed to the Tomorrow Campaign 2.0,” said Kenneth Adams, President of LaGuardia Community College. “Their generosity is helping us expand and strengthen student services, remove financial barriers, and make earning a college degree more attainable for all students. This campaign is critical to helping our students achieve their dreams.”
Learn more about the Tomorrow Campaign 2.0 here.
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LaGuardia is expanding its partnership with Rethink Food Food to strengthen food security services for students by piloting free hot meals to students enrolled in evening classes beginning June 22. Meals will be available between 5 p.m. to 7 p.m., Monday through Friday. The expanded program builds on the successful collaboration between LaGuardia CARES and Rethink Food, to strengthen student food access through prepared, nutritious meals. Through this partnership, Rethink Food brings its chef-led meal model to campus, helping ensure students attending evening courses can access a quality meal before, during, or after class. The expanded evening meal program reflects LaGuardia’s commitment to ensuring that all students have access to the resources they need to thrive both inside and outside the classroom.
Learn more about LaGuardia's partnership with Rethink Food.
| | | | LaGuardia is inviting students, faculty, and staff to help shape the college’s future identity by submitting ideas for a new slogan or motto. Our current slogan, “Dare to Do More,” has proudly represented LaGuardia since 2012. As we look ahead, we are seeking fresh suggestions that capture the spirit of our college, reflect the experiences and aspirations of our diverse community, and align with LaGuardia’s mission and core values. To submit your suggestions, please fill out this form by August 21. Learn more here. | | LaGuardia to Observe Summer Fridays through August 14 | | As a reminder, LaGuardia is participating in CUNY’s Summer Four-Day Workweek Program, which will be in effect from June 8 through August 14. During this period, campus will be closed on Fridays; please keep the adjusted summer schedule in mind, and be sure to check individual office hours when seeking assistance from your colleagues in other departments and divisions. | | | FACULTY AND STAFF UPDATES | | Dr. Philip Gimber Featured in Video about FutureReadyNYC | | |
Nursing Professor and Chairperson of the Health Sciences Department Philip Gimber was recently featured in a video about the FutureReadyNYC Healthcare Pathway Accelerator, launched by CareerWise and New York City Public Schools at the end of last year. The accelerator gives high school students in NYC public schools access to paid, multi-year "earn-and-learn" pathways at healthcare institutions in the city; LaGuardia has partnered with the program to give apprentices clear pathways to college credit and degree attainment. Watch the video here.
| | LaGuardia Attends Sunnyside Community Services Annual Celebration | | |
On June 17, LaGuardia attended the Sunnyside Community Services Annual Celebration, an event that brought together community leaders, elected officials, nonprofit organizations, and residents to celebrate the organization's impact and commitment to serving the community. The event honored New York State Senator Michael Gianaris, Deputy Majority Leader of the New York State Senate, for his longstanding dedication and support of the communities he serves. The program was thoughtfully curated and provided attendees with an opportunity to learn more about the wide range of services and programs offered by Sunnyside Community Services. The celebration highlighted the value of partnerships and the collective effort required to build stronger, healthier, and more connected communities.
Pictured above: Luda Spajic, LaGuardia with Jose Miranda, Director of Sunnyside Community Service Family and Immigrant Programs
| | LaGuardia Kicks off Pride Month with QBP Donovan Richards at Queens Borough Hall | On Wednesday, June 3 , LaGuardia Community College kicked off Pride Month at Queens Borough Hall alongside Queens Borough President Donovan Richards at Queens Borough Hall. Student Keke Hoyte represented the College, sharing personal reflections on the significance of Pride Month. The festive event included Chanel Lopez, Deputy Director of LGBTQ+ Affairs for Governor Kathy Hochul, along with representatives from the CUNY LGBTQIA+ Consortium, LGBT Network, Caribbean Equality Project, GLITS, and other community leaders. | |  | Community Engagement at the 2026 Jamaica Community Partnership Field Day | |
LaGuardia's Community Relations team participated in the 2026 Jamaica Community Partnership Community Field Day on Thursday, June 4. The event brought together more than 20 community partners and welcomed local families for a morning and afternoon of activities, including a cancer awareness workshop, arts and crafts, and refreshments. LaGuardia representative engaged with community members and shared information about the college’s academic programs, workforce training opportunities, and student support services. The event provided a valuable opportunity to connect with residents, answer questions, and raise awareness about the many educational pathways available through LaGuardia Community College.
Pictured above: Alexis Mayers-Hinds, Director of Jamaica Community Partnership and Luda Spajic, LaGuardia Community College
| | Political Science Students Celebrate Achievements | | On June 11, LaGuardia’s Political Science Program hosted a ceremony for graduating students. The Program recognized the impressive achievements of our graduates, including Model UN participation, Student Government leadership, government internships, and participation in President's Society. Political Science graduates are transferring to some of the country's best universities, including Columbia University, Georgetown University, and Howard University. Guest speakers at the ceremony included Dr. Julianne Salazar, and President Kenneth Adams, who each gave inspiring advice to our students. The event also featured speeches from LaGuardia political science alumni, Justin Gravlee, Justin Freeman and Don Lam Len, as well as graduating students, Leo Chui, SGA President Garrett Morgan Jr., and Erin Diaz. As Political Science celebrates its 10-year anniversary at LaGuardia, the Program commends its students and alumni for always daring to do more. | | LaGuardia Honors OTA Graduates at White Coat Ceremony and Pinning | | On June 24, 2026, LaGuardia Community College celebrated the achievements of its Occupational Therapy Assistant (OTA) graduates during its Pinning and White Coat Ceremony. The program featured welcome remarks from President Kenneth Adams, remarks from keynote speaker Professor Gayle Jackson, reflections from student cohort representatives, and an inspiring address by special guest Ms. Ayodele Mason. A class slideshow highlighted memorable moments from the graduates’ journey through the program. The ceremony concluded with the presentation of white coats and OTA pins, symbolizing each student's transition into the profession, followed by awards and special recognitions. The event marked an important milestone as graduates prepared to begin their careers in occupational therapy. | | Adult Basic Skills Students Earn 76 Diplomas at June HSE Celebration | At a June 24 ceremony in the Little Theater, 76 Adult Basic Skills (ABS) students earned High School Equivalency (HSE) diplomas. President Adams delivered the keynote address, and four student speakers reflected on their journeys. ABS also presented the Bridge to Opportunity Award to the Career Development Center team, led by Carolyn Nobles. ABS offers a full range of HSE services, including Pre-GED and GED preparation in English and Spanish, an on-site Testing Center, and the Long Island City Literacy Zone. In 2025–26, ABS awarded 174 HSE diplomas—a more than 15% increase over last year. Many graduates will continue their studies at LaGuardia through CLIP, CUNY Start, and degree programs. Support from the LaGuardia Foundation provides scholarships for economically disadvantaged students when grant-funded options are unavailable. Kudos to the graduates and ABS leadership, including Senior Director Maritza Pritsos, Director Olivia Mayer, Teacher Coordinator Angelo Ditta, and Literacy Zone Coordinator Yolanda Rodriguez. | | | Four ABS GED Graduates Receive Peter Jennings Scholarship and Continuation Awards | CUNY’s annual Peter Jennings Scholarship and Continuation Awards honor exceptional adults who earned their HSE diplomas through CUNY Adult Literacy/HSE Programs and are continuing their education at a CUNY college. This year, four graduates of LaGuardia’s ABS program—now enrolled in degree pathways—were recognized as 2026 recipients at a June 15 ceremony at CUNY Central. The honorees are Yousuf Imtiaz, an Electrical Engineering major; Solomon Feldman, currently completing CUNY Start and matriculating this fall as a Liberal Arts: Social Science & Humanities major; Armani Chancellor, a Journalism major; and Carolina Lapiz, a 2026 LaGuardia graduate now pursuing a bachelor’s in Psychology at City College. Each awardee receives a $1,000 scholarship to support their studies. The award is named for longtime ABC News anchor Peter Jennings, a high school dropout who championed adult learners. His wife, Kayce Freed Jennings, continues to participate in the annual ceremony, which celebrates the graduates’ achievements and future promise. | | PowerUp 2030 Cohort 4 Celebrates Graduation at LaGuardia Community College | LaGuardia Community College and the New York Power Authority (NYPA) celebrated the graduation of PowerUp 2030 Cohort 4 on June 23, recognizing 23 participants for their commitment to leadership and innovation in the renewable energy sector. The ceremony featured opening remarks from Gina Jackson, NYPA Program Manager, followed by remarks from Assistant Dean Assuanta Howard and LaGuardia President Kenneth Adams. Kaela Manisah, NYPA Vice President of Environmental Justice, delivered the keynote address, highlighting the importance of equitable and sustainable energy development. The program also included a cohort recap and recognition by PowerUp 2030 Growth Advisors Milka Rodriguez and Nick Vyas. Graduates showcased their learning through presentations of strategic renewable growth plans before concluding the celebration with a reception. | | | Through a new partnership with District Council 37 (DC 37), New York City’s largest public employee union, LaGuardia Community College/CUNY is delivering a Data Analytics Training Program for union members. Designed as an incumbent worker training initiative, the program is funded through the DC 37 Education Fund, allowing eligible union members to participate at no cost. DC 37 represents approximately 150,000 workers and 89,000 retirees across New York City in education, childcare, cultural institutions, parks, healthcare, municipal services, and other sectors. The eight-month program meets online for two evenings per week to accommodate students’ full‑time work schedules. Participants complete LaGuardia’s full Data Analytics Certificate Curriculum, which includes coursework in SQL, Python, and Tableau and culminates in a capstone project and presentation. | | |
RF CUNY Positions Available
Under the U.S. Department of Education’s Fund for the Improvement of Postsecondary Education (FIPSE) grant awarded to LaGuardia in January, multiple positions are available:
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Renovation Updates:
- The Library is only accessible via the second floor entrances. All of our services, including the printer, are now upstairs.
- Abatement is expected to continue through July 6. During this time, the Library will not have access to the book collections on the first floor. If you need one of these books, please request from another CUNY Library. Ask a Librarian if you need help.
- The Library (and all of CUNY) will be closed on Fridays during most of the summer. The Library will be closed every Friday through August 21. Check our calendar before you make the trip.
- The 45th Annual Library Research Review Competition is open to all students who have research papers with a grade of A. Find out how your students can win an award here.
| | Attend a Dementia Awareness Webinar on July 1 | | LaGuardia employees are invited to attend a webinar, “Managing Money: A Caregiver’s Guide to Finances,” as part of the Dementia Awareness & Education Series hosted in collaboration with the John Jay College of Criminal Justice and the Alzheimer's Association. The virtual session will take place online from 1 to 2 p.m. on July 1; register here. | | |
Enjoy Summer Savings with Working Advantage!
LaGuardia faculty and staff are eligible for various discounts and deals through Working Advantage—enjoy summer savings like 40% off on hotel reservations, vacation packages for Walt Disney World Resort, or 25% off on movie tickets at AMC Theatres, and more by signing up here with your LaGuardia email, or use our company code 971240428.
| | LaGuardia Seeks to Fill Open Faculty and Staff Positions | | Current faculty and staff are welcome to share the openings below with individuals who they believe may be a good fit for the role or apply for the positions themselves. For all LaGuardia openings, visit Employment Opportunities. | | DEPARTMENT OF INFORMATION TECHNOLOGY (DoIT) | | |
Students Must Use New Email System to Access All Official Messages
All official messages to students from the college and CUNY are directed to the new student email system. To receive messages from class instructors via Brightspace and other critical information, students must sign into their new CUNY email accounts. The legacy student email system will be disabled the week of July 6; please urge your students to access their new email account. For more information on how students can access their new accounts click here, or encourage your students to visit the Student Help Desk at B-127.
| | Never Share Your Password or MFA Factors with Anyone | Please note that no one from LaGuardia or CUNY will ever call you to request your password or MFA factors. If anyone calls you and requests your password or MFA info, do not give that person your information—it is a scam. LaGuardia and DoIT are committed to supporting your safe and secure use of technology. The fastest way to report suspected phishing messages is click on “Report Message” and in the dropdown screen, click on “Phishing.” This sends the message directly to the security team for analysis. | | LAGUARDIA IN THE HEADLINES | | "Campus Update" is produced and published by the Communications and External Affairs Division. Faculty and staff who wish to submit items for publication can email CampusUpdate@lagcc.cuny.edu. Submissions must be received by 5 p.m. Tuesday to be considered for publication on Thursday. |
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