Three State University of New York (SUNY) campuses in the area have been awarded funding to enhance mental health services on their campuses. SUNY Chancellor John King Jr. recently visited SUNY Delhi and announced that $10 million had been allocated in the state budget specifically for mental health services. In addition, $10 million has been earmarked for research at SUNY campuses, and another $10 million will be invested in an internship program. This funding comes on the heels of last year’s record-setting allocation for the SUNY system.
Governor Kathy Hochul shared the news on February 14, stating that the investment will expand mental health services at 28 campuses and benefit more than 200,000 students. The funding will support the Statewide Tele-Psychiatry Network and a new tele-counseling option for community colleges. The Student Tele-Psychiatry Network, located at SUNY Upstate Medical University, has expanded significantly since its inception in 2018 and now serves 56 campuses. The network provides psychiatric services and medication management for SUNY students.
The funding will enable at least 25 campuses to hire, retain, or extend contracts for mental health staff, including psychologists, social workers, and psychiatric nurse practitioners. Additionally, 14 campuses will utilize telehealth contracts to increase their capacity and meet student needs during crises and after-hours. These contracts will also facilitate access to a diverse range of clinical staff in terms of specialties and demographics.
SUNY Oneonta, SUNY Delhi, and SUNY Cobleskill are among the campuses receiving funding. SUNY Oneonta expressed gratitude for the investment, emphasizing the importance of addressing student mental health to foster academic success. The college plans to use the funds to expand its mental health staff, develop peer mentoring programs, and provide education and support on crisis management and basic needs.
SUNY Delhi will hire two additional full-time senior mental health counselors to offer individual and group counseling, crisis intervention, outreach, and programming. The college also plans to invest in an online therapy service, launch an arts-based mental wellness program, enhance peer support services, and organize a Mental Health Summit to raise awareness and reduce stigma.
SUNY Cobleskill will hire a 12-month mental health counselor to support students in the Educational Opportunity Program and expand counseling services to non-traditional business hours. The program provides access, academic support, and financial assistance to state residents who show potential for college-level work.
With this funding, SUNY campuses are taking significant strides to prioritize mental health and well-being among their students, faculty, and staff. By expanding services, hiring additional staff, and leveraging telehealth options, these campuses are ensuring that students have the support they need to thrive throughout their college journeys.
