Governor Kathy Hochul announced on March 13 the recipients of the 2026 New York State College Access Awards, which recognize individuals and organizations working to improve financial aid awareness and expand access to higher education throughout the state.
The awards were presented during the inaugural New York State College Access Conference, an event that brought together financial aid professionals, guidance counselors, advocates, and higher education leaders. The conference featured workshops on navigating changes in federal financial aid, promoting completion of the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) and Tuition Assistance Program (TAP), and supporting students as they pursue college opportunities. Governor Hochul addressed attendees via video, emphasizing their important role in helping students and families.
“Congratulations to the recipients of the 2026 New York State College Access Awards, whose extraordinary efforts are breaking down barriers and expanding opportunities for students across our state,” said Governor Kathy Hochul. “This inaugural conference embodies the progress and dedication that define New York’s mission to enhance college affordability and accessibility, because when we invest in education, we invest in the future of our state.”
The awards honored excellence in five categories: leadership in advancing higher education (Dr. Guillermo Linares Leadership Award), creating pathways for underserved students (Pathway Builder Award), innovative strategies for application completion (College Application Month Award of Excellence), dedication to guiding families through financial aid (Financial Aid Navigator Award), and increasing FAFSA awareness statewide (FAFSA Champion Award). Recipients included educators from SUNY, CUNY, Monroe University, Yonkers Partners in Education, Brentwood High School, Belmont Preparatory High School, Peekskill City School District, Say Yes Buffalo, Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute, Russell Sage College, Aspira of New York, TeachNY, United Federation of Teachers, Molloy University, UAspire and others.
Doris B. González of the New York State Higher Education Services Corporation said awardees’ dedication has helped expand support for students: “Together, we are transforming the dream of higher education into an attainable reality for millions of New Yorkers.” SUNY Chancellor John B. King Jr., CUNY Chancellor Félix V. Matos RodrÃguez, State Education Commissioner Betty A. Rosa and other leaders also congratulated recipients and highlighted ongoing partnerships aimed at removing barriers to college access.
The conference marks a significant step in Governor Hochul’s efforts to make college more attainable through collaboration among public agencies and private institutions. Under her leadership—and with initiatives like College Application Month—New York now ranks fifth nationally for FAFSA completions. The event was hosted by HESC with partners including SUNY, CUNY, NYS Education Department and associations representing independent colleges.
Photos from the event and session recordings are available on HESC’s website.