Mohawk Valley Community College is proud to announce the first graduates of its Education Opportunity Program (EOP). Isabel Tanner of Utica and Adam Agosto of Yorkville, both May graduates of MVCC, began their degrees in the fall of 2020, when the College first launched its EOP.  

Tanner, who earned an associate degree in Public Policy, came to MVCC as a Presidential Scholar and was nominated for the American Legion Post 229 School Award Medal Program. Tanner has been accepted at SUNY Polytechnic Institute and aspires to become an advocate.

Agosto, who earned an associate degree in Criminal Justice, also was nominated for the American Legion Post 229 School Award Medal Program. Agosto plans to apply to both Utica University and SUNY Polytechnic Institute and aspires to work in law enforcement.

“We are proud of our inaugural EOP students,” said J. Manny Sabillon, Educational Opportunity Program Counselor at MVCC. “They worked hard and earned high grades while transitioning to online learning and navigating the challenges of a pandemic. We will continue to be here for them if they need support with anything else, not only academically, but holistically as well.”

The Educational Opportunity Program provides access, academic support, and supplemental financial assistance to make higher education possible for students who demonstrate academic promise, but whose life circumstances have not permitted them to reach their full potential. The program was established in 1967 through legislation sponsored by former New York State Assemblyman Arthur O. Eve of Buffalo who dedicated his career to addressing the needs of underserved communities.

At MVCC, EOP promotes academic achievement and excellence through advising, collaborative learning workshops, mentoring, and networking opportunities, which prepare students for their academic journey beyond MVCC. To learn more, including eligibility criteria and how to apply, visit www.mvcc.edu/eop.