SUNY CHANCELLOR KING CELEBRATES RIBBON CUTTING AT NEW BRONX EDUCATIONAL OPPORTUNITY CENTER FACILITY

December 12, 2024

Center Broadens Footprint within Bronx Community after 34 Years in Previous Location

Bronx, NY – State University of New York Chancellor John B. King Jr. today celebrated the ribbon cutting of the Bronx Educational Opportunity Center's (EOC) new facility, located at 2467 Jerome Avenue in the Bronx. The EOC had been housed in its previous location on Bathgate Avenue for the past 34 years of its 39-year existence.

"The Bronx EOC has built a legacy of service through their academic and workforce development programs, which support economic advancement, and that work will only be enhanced by this cutting-edge facility," said SUNY Chancellor King. "EOCs are a cornerstone of SUNY's commitment to foster upward mobility for communities and populations that have historically been excluded from such crucial opportunities. Thanks to the support of our champions in state and local government, and our partners at Bronx Community College, the Bronx EOC is now better positioned to add a new chapter to its proud history of advancing equity for individuals and families."

Chancellor King was joined at the Bronx EOC by SUNY Board Trustee Marcos A. Crespo, who said, "As a Bronx resident, I am profoundly proud to join SUNY leaders, elected officials, and community members at the ribbon cutting for the new Bronx EOC facility. We are confident this facility will broaden opportunities for New Yorkers in search of economic and career mobility, and we're excited to continue working with EOCs across our state as they reach new heights."

Through more than 35 years of affiliation with CUNY Bronx Community College, the Bronx EOC has served as an adult learning education center, with academic programs leading to GED attainment, access to higher education, and innovative workforce training that provides a path to gainful employment. In the 2023-24 program year, the center enrolled 580 educationally and economically disadvantaged students. This resulted in over 230 certificates and licenses earned, as well as more than 50 confirmed job placements.

Tamara Frazier, Deputy Chief Operating Officer and Executive Director of SUNY's Black Leadership Institute added, "For nearly four decades the Bronx EOC has been a pillar in uplifting members of the community as they look to achieve their professional and personal endeavors. I am confident that the new EOC facility will only extend the work of this already impactful network. As we open these new doors, we are thankful for the work and dedication of the Bronx EOC team, and the financial commitment and support from our Governor, the legislature, and local community leaders."

Bronx EOC Executive Director Ronnie Hector said, "At the Bronx EOC, lives are transformed, dreams are realized, and hope flourishes. Our students are our neighbors, friends, family, and new friends from around the globe. With this new cutting-edge facility and the support of our faculty and staff, the State University of New York, our host campus Bronx Community College, elected officials, and employer and community partners, the Bronx EOC is poised to provide additional pathways to economic and social mobility."

SUNY University Center for Academic and Workforce Development Associate Provost and Director Lisa Jackson said, "As the Bronx EOC approaches 40 years of service to the community, this relocation underscores the center's enduring ability to adapt and thrive for the betterment of the people it serves. The new location will open doors for more Bronx residents to access the EOC's life changing programs and services, and the facility is equipped to enhance what the center offers today and into the future. I thank and commend Chancellor King, Interim President Santiago, Mr. Hector and our legislative partners for their work to solidify and expand the Bronx EOC's impact."

Assembly Speaker Carl E. Heastie said, "Adult continuing education holds immense significance in promoting personal and professional growth. The Bronx EOC stands as a symbol of opportunity for our community, and this transformative facility truly embodies that vision. Since its inception, this center has had a profound impact on families, providing them with the means to grow and thrive. Today's ribbon cutting ceremony marks not just the unveiling of a new facility but also the commencement of a journey that will empower individuals as well as families."

NYS Senator Robert Jackson said, "The SUNY Bronx Educational Opportunity Center has been a catalyst for change, turning ambition into achievement for nearly four decades. This new facility amplifies that impact, providing our community with greater access to education, skills, and pathways to economic empowerment. This expansion represents an enduring promise to equip Bronx residents with the tools to succeed, reinforcing that progress is most powerful when it's shared by all."

NYS Senator Gustavo Rivera said, "I want to congratulate SUNY and the Bronx Educational Opportunity Center for the grand opening of their new facility. This new space marks a new chapter for our community, one where Bronxites will have more access to gain the skills and education they need to successfully enter our competitive job market. I have no doubt that the Bronx EOC will continue to empower Bronxites and open doors to brighter futures for years to come."

Assemblymember George Alvarez said, "The opening of the new SUNY Bronx Educational Opportunity Center is a significant milestone for our community. This state-of-the-art facility will continue to empower Bronx residents by providing access to education, workforce training, and pathways to economic independence. For nearly four decades, the EOC has been a beacon of hope for those seeking to improve their lives through education, and this new chapter ensures that its impact will only grow. I am proud to support this transformative resource and look forward to seeing the continued success it brings to our borough."

Assemblymember Landon Dais said, "The Bronx Educational Opportunity Center has been a key resource for educational access and workforce development in our community. This new facility will not only carry forward that important mission but also create even more opportunities for local residents to pursue higher education and career training, leading to better employment outcomes and a stronger community. With this expansion, we are helping to build a brighter, more prosperous future for our community."

Assemblymember Chantel Jackson said, "The students and faculty of the Bronx Educational Opportunity Center have been continued and valuable partners to my office and the greater Bronx community. I am excited about the new opportunities EOC will create in their new space."

Assemblymember Yudelka Tapia said, "The new SUNY Bronx Educational Opportunity Center on Jerome Avenue represents a significant step forward for our community. By relocating to a prime, accessible location, the Center is opening new doors for Bronx residents to pursue education and workforce development opportunities. With expanded evening programs and cutting-edge courses like Doula training and EV Charging Station Repair, the EOC is addressing the evolving needs of our workforce. I commend SUNY for their commitment to serving those who need it most and for their vision of a brighter future for the Bronx."

Dormitory Authority of the State of New York (DASNY) President and Chief Executive Officer Robert J. Rodriguez said, "DASNY is proud to partner with SUNY and the Bronx EOC in their critically important mission of providing quality education and expanding access to opportunities for so many New Yorkers. Developing facilities that empower individuals seeking a better life to open new doors is integral to DASNY's mission. We congratulate the Bronx EOC on this milestone."

Our history

NON-DISCRIMINATION STATEMENT

The SUNY Bronx EOC does not discriminate against any employee, applicant for employment, intern, whether paid or unpaid, contractor, student, or applicant for admission or other members of the college community (including but not limited to vendors, visitors and guests) based on a individual's race, color, national origin, religion, creed, age, disability, sex, gender identification, gender expression, sexual orientation, self-identified or perceived sex, the status of being transgender, familial status, pregnancy, predisposing genetic characteristics, military status, veteran status, domestic violence victim state, criminal conviction or any other category protected by law.

THE CITY UNIVERSITY OF NEW YORK POLICY ON SEX-BASED MISCONDUCT & REPORTING FORM

JAMES BOYKINS AWARD RECEPIENTS 2020

The James Boykins Award is presented every year to the faculty or staff member(s) who demonstrates exemplary service and dedication to the students and staff of the SUNY Bronx EOC.This year the well-deserved recepients are Mr. Faouzi Abousalham& Dr. Sayyid Cato

Mr. Faouzi Abousalham received his Bachelor degree in Statistics and his Master Degree in Applied Mathematics from Hunter College, The City University of New York. He has over 12 years of experience teaching Mathematics in many colleges in New York City and abroad. His interest in educational technology motivates him to attend and present in many seminars and conferences in the United States and around the world. He has also developed many tutorial math video using ipad to strength students’ skills and to alleviate math anxiety.

He is currently working as a Math Lecturer at SUNY Bronx Educational Center where he Prepares students for NYS Test Assessing Secondary Completion and for their College Placement Math Exam.

Mr. Abousalham’s diverse background, and his language skills helped him to develop great skills of teaching in diverse environments.

Dr. Sayyid Cato is a dynamic technology and literacy specialist, lecturer, and instructional designer who endeavors to reduce the digital divide and its effects. His diverse background has proved instrumental as he employs this professional prominence to assist youths in an arena where they are highly disadvantaged.

Dr. Cato completed a rigorous education specialist program within the Caribbean before completing a Bachelors in sociology and education in New York. In an era that technology is extremely prominent, Mr. Cato was cognizant of the need for students to also become adept using technology efficiently to problem solve and construct meaningful learning both inside and outside the classroom. This has become increasingly important with the realization of the digital divide. He holds two Master’s Degrees from Columbia University in Education, Instructional Technology and Media, and Computing and Education. His dissertation at the doctoral level examined ubiquitous tools and applications that can be used to enhance online learning for students who are from impoverished regions and who have limited access to resources.

Dr. Cato sees a need to assist prospective leaders of tomorrow develop those skills needed to perpetuate our advancement. At the graduate level, he has afforded practicing and prospective teachers with the skills to identify design and instructional practices needed in learning environments and to select and evaluate adaptive technological tools that can be used to support learners. He teaches and mentors aspiring professionals and educators who strive to complete degrees in areas such as education, business management programs and the Arts. He currently instructs Bronx EOC students, who are preparing for the TASC exam and preparing to attend college. As he continues to embrace his journey, his educational background has allowed him to focus on emerging technologies that hold the greatest promise for enriching learning experiences throughout the educational enterprise.

SUNY BRONX EOC OUTSTANDING STUDENTS 2019-2020

In recognition of the outstanding efforts of our students to reach their intended educational or career goals at our center. Today we honor their commitment to greatness and trajectory towards upward mobility.

Outstanding Students

• Harry Adams - College Prep
• Elizabeth Costa - Certified Nursing Assistant
• Joshua Smith - Emergency Medical Technician
• Amanda Lawrence - High School Equivalency/GED
• Fatiha Yamoun - Home Health Aide
• Leidy Guevara - Medical Assistant
• Cerria Granby - Security Guard

Congratulations to all our outstanding students for the academic year 2019-2020. The faculty and staff honors your accomplishments.

SUNY EOC VIRTUAL COMMENCENMENT CEREMONY 2020

We are pleased to invite you to join all Educational Opportunity Centers (EOC) and College and Career Outreach Centers on July 29, 2020 at 6:00pm for the first-ever, statewide EOC Virtual Commencement Ceremony. This event will celebrate the wonderful accomplishments of our dedicated students, as well as recognize the contributions of all participants, faculty, staff, family and friends.

EOC graduates from across New York State are scheduled to receive certificates of completion from over 20 career training and academic preparation programs. This includes vocational areas such as allied health, culinary services, dental assisting and more, as well as academic disciplines like college preparation, high school equivalency and English for Speakers of Other Languages.

Many of our graduation candidates have overcome significant obstacles to achieve this success. A student round table highlighting personal stories about how and why they came to their EOC will illustrate the important role our institutions serve in communities statewide.

Later in the program, speeches and reflections will accompany student award recognitions. We are also grateful and excited to share that Hon. Carl E. Heastie, Speaker of the New York State Assembly and longtime champion of EOCs, will deliver our keynote address.

A considerable number of friends and relatives of this year's graduates from across New York State are expected to attend this virtual ceremony. Please join us as we celebrate and honor the EOC Class of 2020.

MEDICAL ASSISTANT GRADUATES JUNE 2020

The SUNY Bronx EOC is happy to honor our Medical Assistants. We are proud to recognize our Medical Assistants as they complete their classroom instructions. This has been a challenging time for these student scholars as they completed training during the pandemic. These are our future frontline healthcare heroes, and we honor them today, June 08, 2020.

Congratulations to you on a job well done despite the struggles you made it, and you will make a difference in the lives of our communities as you serve them with excellence.

PPE DONATIONS TO UNION COMMUNITY HEALTH CENTER by SUNY BRONX EOC

The Bronx EOC is pleased to support the heroic efforts of Union Community Health Center in their efforts to support Bronx communities in the fight against COVID19.

The Bronx EOC has delivered PPEs to Union Community Health Center in support of their valiant efforts.

We pay tribute to your commitment to serve.

NEW YORK: MOST COVID CASES; LEAST FEDERAL $

The US Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) announced last week the allocation to hospitals of the first $30 billion of aid from the recently passed COVID stimulus bill to help healthcare facilities get through this crisis. Despite being the epicenter of the COVID pandemic in America, New York is woefully underfunded in this first allocation:

Fact # 1: New York has over twice as many cases as any other state

Fact # 2: New York has over twice as many deaths as any other state

Fact # 3: In New York, more healthcare workers have been hit by the virus than any other state

However, HHS is distributing far more funds on a per-patient basis to states with far less COVID presence. Some states are getting $200,000 to $300,000 per patient while New York is getting approximately $12,000 per patient.

HHS will soon be allocating the remaining $70 billion aid to hospitals and nursing homes. New York needs to receive its fair share of aid in order to respond effectively to this crisis.

Call the Health and Human Services office in New York City today at (212) 264-4600 and urge them to ensure New York gets the federal funding it needs in this time of crisis.

Every voice matters.

SUNY Bronx EOC Distributes PPE to our Heroes in the Frontlines

At the SUNY Bronx Educational Opportunity Center (Bronx EOC), there is a saying, “Service in Excellence.” We are proud to serve ourcommunities during these challenging times. Our commitment to excellence extends to every stakeholder in the communities we serve.

The Bronx EOC is grateful to have had the opportunity to donate much needed Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) to our heroes on the frontlines. You are not in this fight alone, and we are here to aid you in this fight. “We got your back!”

The following healthcare facilities have received PPE donations from the Bronx EOC as we work to “flatten the curve.” Jacobi Medical Center, Lincoln Hospital, and Saint Vincent de Paul Nursing Home. We honor your commitment to the fight, and we stand with you, no retreat, and no surrender.

Inventing Yourself Workshops for the Week of April 6 to 10

Hi Everyone!

We are offering multiple workshops this week in order to meet everyone's needs and schedules.

The link below will take you directly to our website registration page where you can sign up for one or more workshops.

The first one will take place tomorrow, Monday April 6 at 9:30am.

If you have any questions, concerns or suggestions for future workshops, you can email me at megan@inventingself.org.

We're here for you :)

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE*** ASSEMBLYWOMAN FERNANDEZ AND SUNY BRONX EOC DONATE PROTECTIVE SUPPLIES TO JACOBI HOSPITAL STAFF TO COMBAT COVID19

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
PRESS RELEASE
3/30/2020
Contact: Forhad Rahman | (347) 204-0478

BRONX – Assemblywoman Nathalia Fernandez and Executive Director, Ronnie Hector and staff at the SUNY Bronx EOC donated much needed medical supplies to the hospital staff at NYC Health + Hospitals/Jacobi, such as masks, gowns, gloves, and goggles, who are currently helping Bronxites battle COVID19.

“Support from our community during these challenging times is most appreciated,” said Associate Executive Director Barbara DeIorio. “We thank AM Fernandez and the SUNY EOC, as we continue to provide high-quality care for all our patients and adapt to the ever-changing needs of the COVID-19 pandemic.”

“The SUNY Bronx EOC values all our stakeholders, and we work collaboratively to support them,” said Ronnie Hector, Executive Director of SUNY Bronx EOC. “The Center is honored to join with Assemblywoman Fernandez to aid our partners Jacobi Medical Center. We are one community in service to each other.”

“Our front-line workers are putting their lives on the line so that they can help our most vulnerable patients,” said Assemblywoman Fernandez. “I am so glad that I was able to team up with the SUNY Bronx EOC to provide these resources to the staff, understanding just how limited the supply is and how necessary it is to have these protective gears. This protective equipment is the little bit that we can do for our healthcare workers to give them some safety during this pandemic.”

For any questions, please contact Forhad Rahman at rahmanf@nyassembly.gov.

Our Response to the COVID-19 Pandemic.

Recent news about the Coronavirus has understandably created concerns. At the Bronx Educational Opportunity Center (BxEOC), we continue to monitor the situation and provide information to our student scholars, faculty, staff, and communities.

We share your concern and are working with SUNY and CUNY to develop protocols to limit the spread of the virus. The Center sanitizes the facility at least twice per day and will expand as needed. Sterilization stations are set up throughout the building, so visitors and student scholars can sanitize their hands throughout the day.

The Bronx EOC, in accordance with directives issued by the Governor, SUNY and CUNY, and to safeguard the health of its students, faculty, and staff, have limited the number of students on campus by moving a majority of our instructions online. The Center continues to look at social distancing measures to help prevent the spread of the virus and keep our constituents safe. You are our family, and family takes care of each other!

We are open for registration and student support services, and we ask you to visit the Center and register for classes. Our computer labs remain accessible to our student scholars. However, if you are not feeling well, we advise that you do not visit the Center and go see a doctor.

The BxEOC continues to help stem the tide of this virus to protect our communities. We will follow directives from our partners in the offices of the Governor, Mayor, SUNY and CUNY. Please do all that you can to limit your risk of infection as you move about the city.

We have added several links to our web page to provide up-to-date information concerning the virus. Please feel free to use these links.

Thank you, and be well.

Sincerely,

Mr. Ronnie R. Hector
Executive Director