On May 15, 2025, the New York City Council held a crucial hearing on the Fiscal Year 2026 Executive Budget, focusing on funding for the City University of New York (CUNY) and its community colleges. The meeting highlighted significant concerns regarding budget cuts and the need for additional financial support to restore essential services and faculty positions.

Mayor Eric Adams recently announced the restoration of $96 million in operating funds and $30 million for specific programs, including the Accelerated Study in Associate Programs (ASAP) and the Brooklyn Recovery Corps at Medgar Evers College. However, stakeholders emphasized that these restorations merely return funding to pre-COVID levels, leaving a substantial gap in resources needed to support students and faculty effectively.

CUNY representatives expressed urgent requests for further operating support, estimating an additional need of around $100 million to address ongoing challenges, including the loss of nearly 500 full-time faculty positions since the mayor took office. The representatives underscored the importance of these positions in maintaining educational quality and supporting students from underserved communities.

Professor John Dennehy from Queens College shared his experience in developing a wastewater COVID surveillance program, which faced setbacks due to the termination of federal grants. He noted that over 30 grants totaling more than $25 million had been rescinded, threatening CUNY's research capabilities and the educational opportunities for students in critical fields.

The hearing also addressed the Opportunity Scholarship Program, which aims to attract students to high-demand areas such as nursing and computer science. However, concerns were raised about the lack of funding for the necessary faculty infrastructure to support these initiatives.

Additionally, the need for emergency housing options for students was highlighted, with calls for more dormitory spaces to assist those facing domestic challenges. Stakeholders stressed that CUNY has historically served as a vital resource for New York City's diverse population and that continued support from the city council is essential for its mission.

In conclusion, the NYC Council's budget hearing underscored the pressing need for increased funding and support for CUNY to ensure it can continue to serve its students and the broader community effectively. The discussions revealed a collective commitment to advocating for the university's future amidst ongoing financial challenges.