Introduction:
York College is a public college that is part of the City University of New York (CUNY) system. It is located in the Jamaica neighborhood of Queens, New York, and offers over 40 undergraduate degree programs. With a commitment to providing affordable education to students, York College has a diverse student body and offers a wide range of extracurricular activities. In this blog post, we will explore some fun facts about York College that you may not know.
History
York College was established in 1966 as part of the CUNY system. The college was originally located in the Jamaica High School building and was known as the Jamaica Campus of Queens College. In 1971, the college moved to its current location on Guy R. Brewer Boulevard. York College has a rich history of providing access to higher education for underrepresented populations, including low-income students, first-generation students, and students of color.
Notable Alumni
York College has a number of notable alumni who have gone on to achieve great success in various fields. One such alumna is Lorna Simpson, an artist and photographer who has exhibited her work internationally and received numerous awards and honors. Another notable alum is Dr. Neil deGrasse Tyson, an astrophysicist and science communicator who has hosted several television shows and written several books. Additionally, former New York City Councilman Leroy Comrie and former New York State Assemblyman William Scarborough are also alumni of York College.
Student Life
York College offers a vibrant student life experience with a wide range of clubs and organizations. The college has over 60 student-run clubs, including academic clubs, cultural clubs, and sports clubs. Students can participate in the student government, the York College Student Association (YCSA), and the student newspaper, The Lexicon. The college also hosts a variety of events throughout the year, such as the annual Spring Fling and the International Food Festival.
Athletics
York College has a competitive athletic program with several sports teams, including basketball, volleyball, soccer, and tennis. The college is a member of the NCAA Division III and the City University of New York Athletic Conference (CUNYAC). The college has won several CUNYAC championships in men’s and women’s basketball, volleyball, and soccer.
Diversity and Inclusion
York College has a diverse student body and is committed to promoting diversity and inclusion on campus. The college offers a variety of programs and services to support underrepresented students, including the York College Male Initiative Program (YCMIP) and the Women’s Center. Additionally, the college has a Multicultural Center that hosts events and workshops throughout the year to celebrate diversity and promote cultural awareness.
Sustainability
York College is committed to promoting sustainability and reducing its carbon footprint. The college has implemented several initiatives to reduce energy consumption and waste, including the installation of solar panels and the implementation of a recycling program. The college also offers a sustainability minor that allows students to explore issues related to sustainability and environmental stewardship.
Location
York College is located in the Jamaica neighborhood of Queens, New York. The college is easily accessible by public transportation, with several subway and bus lines stopping nearby. The college is also just a short distance from several cultural institutions, such as the Queens Museum, the Jamaica Center for Arts and Learning, and the Louis Armstrong House Museum.
Conclusion:
York College is a vibrant and diverse college that offers a wide range of academic programs, extracurricular activities, and support services for students. With a commitment to promoting diversity and sustainability, York College is truly a special place. Whether you are a current student, an alum, or simply someone who is interested in learning more about this wonderful university, there is always something new and exciting to discover at York.