Thursday, October 1, 2026
Nassau Community College recently welcomed 40 incoming students to campus for its Educational Opportunity Program Summer Institute, a four-week program designed to help students build academic skills and prepare for the transition to college.
The program, part of the State University of New York’s Arthur O. Eve Educational Opportunity Program, gives incoming EOP students an opportunity to experience college life before beginning their fall coursework. Students participate in academic instruction, enrichment activities, professional development and social programming while becoming familiar with the Garden City campus and its resources.
“This year, we are welcoming one of the largest EOP cohorts the College has seen in recent years, including both first-time, full-time and transfer students,” Ariyanna Simmons, acting director of Special Programs, EOP, said in a news release. “Our Summer Institute gives students an opportunity to build a strong foundation before beginning their college careers while also encouraging them to explore their interests, discover their strengths and develop meaningful connections with their peers, faculty and the NCC community.”
Throughout the program, students received instruction in reading, writing, mathematics and critical thinking. They also had opportunities to meet faculty members, connect with EOP staff and become familiar with the campus.
This year’s Summer Institute also marked the launch of EOP Pathways, a new initiative that allows students to complete independent projects in art and STEM fields. Students participated in hands-on learning, developed critical-thinking and problem-solving skills, collaborated with peers and learned from professionals in their areas of interest.
Projects included work ranging from robotics to abstract art. The projects will be featured during an EOP Summer Showcase, where students can share their work and reflect on their summer experiences.
The institute also included enrichment and social activities intended to help students establish connections and build a sense of community before the fall semester.
“EOP is about creating opportunity and providing students with the support they need to reach their full potential,” Dr. Maria Conzatti, chief administrative officer at Nassau Community College, said. “The Summer Institute is an important part of that mission. We are excited to welcome these students to NCC and look forward to watching them grow as scholars, leaders and members of our college community.”
SUNY’s Arthur O. Eve Educational Opportunity Program provides academic support and supplemental financial assistance to students who have the potential to succeed in higher education despite limited financial resources and inadequate academic preparation.
At NCC, EOP provides academic support, tutoring, supplemental instruction and modest financial assistance for non-tuition expenses, as well as a community for participating students.
Nassau Community College, a SUNY campus, serves more than 17,000 full- and part-time students annually and offers 70 degree and certificate programs. The 225-acre campus in Garden City has more than 164,000 alumni.
