Capital District Educational Opportunity Center Celebrates Graduates at 60th Commencement Ceremony

June 29, 2026

The Capital District Educational Opportunity Center (EOC) celebrated 328 graduates during its 60th commencement ceremony on Thursday, June 25, at Hudson Valley Community College. Hosted by Hudson Valley, the Capital District EOC is part of a network of 10 EOCs and two outreach centers across New York state that serve local communities and help empower New Yorkers toward upward mobility. EOCs are part of the State University of New York’s (SUNY) ongoing mission to support residents with access to a high-quality education that helps them reach their full potential.

“Empowering New Yorkers — helping uplift students and entire communities — is one of the great things SUNY does throughout our state,” SUNY Chancellor John King said. “I applaud our EOC graduates and commend them for putting in the hard work to earn this milestone accomplishment. With the education and experience they have received through their SUNY EOC program, I know they will achieve great things for themselves, their communities and all of New York.”

The SUNY Board of Trustees said, “SUNY is committed to providing all New Yorkers with educational opportunities that will help prepare them for a better future. That is a core commitment shared across SUNY, and it is why we are so invested in ensuring programs like SUNY EOCs remain vibrant and utilized in communities throughout New York state. Congratulations to every EOC graduate. We are proud of you and look forward to your continued success.”

“The mission of the Educational Opportunity Center is rooted in a simple but powerful belief: when people are given access to opportunity, support and a pathway forward, extraordinary things happen,” said Capital District EOC Executive Director Michael Markou. “Every day, EOCs across New York state help individuals overcome barriers, discover their potential and build brighter futures for themselves and their families. At the Capital District EOC, we remain committed to putting people first, supporting every student’s journey and ensuring that determination and hard work are met with meaningful opportunities for success. Our students are the reason we do this work, and their achievements are the greatest measure of our success.”

“Hudson Valley Community College is proud to serve as a vital partner in the EOC’s life-changing mission,” said Hudson Valley Community College President Michael Brophy. “Witnessing the determination of these graduates reminds us why accessible, community-centered education is so crucial. We are honored to sponsor a program that creates tangible pathways to success, and we congratulate the Class of 2026 as they step forward to strengthen and inspire our local workforce.”

Visit the Capital District EOC website for information about available programs.