Queensborough Unveils State-of-the-Art STEM Learning Laboratories
The Honorable New York State Senator Toby Ann Stavisky attended a press conference for the unveiling of the refurbished Chemistry learning laboratories at Queensborough Community College. Additional attendees included Dr. Diane B. Call, President of Queensborough Community College, Dr. Sasan Karimi, Professor and Chairperson, Chemistry, and STEM students. NY1 was there at the event, held on October 18. View the NY1 news clip
Senator Stavisky, along with the New York State Economic Development Assistance Program for STEM Lab, allocated $250K for a complete renovation of existing space in three chemistry learning laboratories at Queensborough that will prepare students for the high technology workforce of tomorrow.
The upgrades have resulted in more efficient, spacious learning laboratories featuring new counter tops and fixtures, updated plumbing and gas lines, improved hood ventilation, as well as accessible cabinet space designed to hold more glassware.
“I am so pleased to be here for the unveiling of the state-of-the-art STEM learning labs. Over the years, we have seen a growing gap between the number of tech jobs available and the eligible candidates to fill them. Our community colleges can play a vital role in bridging this gap through programs and facilities like this one. In Albany, we have had a number of hearings on the need for more training in the STEM fields and this building shows Queensborough’s commitment to change that. Each semester, more than 1,000 students will benefit from the new learning labs at Queensborough Community College, where they will receive the necessary preparation to qualify for the tens of thousands of unfilled jobs in the science, technology, engineering and mathematical fields. I would like to thank the New York State Economic Development Assistance Program and Queensborough President Dr. Diane B. Call for their dedication and commitment to bettering the educational experience for Queensborough students,” Senator Toby Ann Stavisky said.
“Senator Stavisky has, for many years, been a staunch advocate of Queensborough, CUNY and higher education in general,” said Dr. Diane B. Call, President of Queensborough Community College. “Today presents a wonderful opportunity for the students, the faculty and staff of Queensborough to express our deep appreciation to Senator Stavisky who has ensured we can maintain and upgrade to meet workforce needs and most importantly to give our students a chance to learn all the theories that they will carry out in various careers within STEM.”
The updated laboratories will serve over 1,000 students per semester in the STEM related programs at Queensborough.
Queensborough has recently received approval for its tenth new dual/joint A.S., B.S. degree program. The new program is in Pharmaceutical Sciences at York College and will allow Queensborough students to transfer to York College upon graduation. The collaboration provides the academic preparation necessary to pursue careers in the pharmaceutical sciences and increase their professional prospects.
The program will be open to both full-time and part-time students to accommodate the traditional high school graduate as well as older adults who may be seeking a degree to obtain gainful employment or career advancement.
Queensborough Community College is the only CUNY institution with ten Dual/Joint programs:
Nursing with Hunter College, York College and CUNY School of Professional Studies; Biotechnology with York College; Criminal Justice, Forensic Accounting and Forensic Science with John Jay College of Criminal Justice; Education with Queens College, Pharmaceutical Sciences with York College and Computer Science and Internet Security with John Jay College of Criminal Justice.
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