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The State University of New York (SUNY) has announced a new initiative aimed at increasing the number of licensed practical nurses (LPNs) in the Syracuse region. The program, set to launch at the Syracuse Educational Opportunity Center (EOC), will be funded by a $270,000 investment from SUNY. The EOC, located in the rapidly evolving East Adams Neighborhood, will begin enrolling 20 students in 2026, with plans to double the class size to 40 the following year.
The Syracuse EOC, which offers tuition-free educational opportunities, is undergoing a $30 million transformation to accommodate the new program. The initiative is part of a broader effort by SUNY to address the nursing shortage in New York by enhancing the state's nursing workforce. According to Syracuse.com, the grant for Syracuse was the largest among six announced statewide, reflecting the area's significant need for healthcare professionals.
The program will be operated by SUNY Canton, which already has an established LPN training program. The grant will fund new lab and classroom spaces, as well as a new faculty member. The Syracuse EOC, known for its tuition-free programs, aims to provide accessible education to financially eligible individuals, thereby supporting the local community's needs.
As the Syracuse EOC approaches its 60th anniversary in 2026, it continues to offer a range of programs to help individuals achieve educational and career goals. The center provides support for college entry, job placement, and overcoming challenges such as food and housing insecurity. The new LPN program aligns with the EOC's mission to empower students and improve their lives through education.