SEEKMEET Brings Together Scholars for a Vibrant Celebration of Community and Support

Nobody hosts a more exciting celebration than York College’s Percy E. Sutton SEEK Program. SEEKMEET, a unique and vibrant event held in September on the lush lawn of the Classroom Building, served as a lively kickoff for the academic year. The event was filled with food and drinks—including smoothies—lawn and table games, and music spun by a DJ, featuring hits from the '90s, early 2000s, and beyond.

SEEK, which stands for Search for Education, Elevation, and Knowledge, is a CUNY initiative established by the New York State Assembly in 1966. SEEKMEET was created to provide a unifying space where all SEEK scholars, across different cohorts and class years, can come together to connect, engage, and build community. “The purpose of this event is to foster a sense of belonging while reinforcing the mission of the SEEK Program: supporting academic success, personal growth, and professional readiness for our students,” explained the program’s director, Hopeton Allen.

Allen noted that the gathering grew out of the recognition that while SEEK scholars each have unique journeys, their shared experiences and access to resources create a powerful support network. “By bringing the entire SEEK community together, we encourage scholars to bond with peers, interact with faculty and staff, and learn more about services available to them both within SEEK and across York College,” he said.

Director Allen reported that this year’s SEEKMEET drew 348 scholars and 45 faculty and staff. Students also had the opportunity to meet with university leadership, including Dr. Michel Hodge, New University Dean of the Office of Special Programs; Dr. Claudia Schrader, York College President; Dr. Karen Williams, Vice President of Student Affairs; and leaders from Financial Aid, Student Development, and Student Activities. Their presence underscored York’s deep commitment to ensuring SEEK students receive the academic, social, and emotional support they need to thrive.

“Ultimately, SEEKMEET is more than an event, it’s a tradition that represents unity, connection, and opportunity,” Allen said. “It reminds students that while SEEK provides critical academic and financial support, it also offers a holistic college experience that empowers them to reach their full potential. This also shows them that #SEEKWorks throughout their entire journey.”

The SEEK program was founded by the late NYS Assemblyman Percy Sutton. After his passing in 2009, his name was added to honor his legacy. Today, the Percy E. Sutton SEEK Program continues to shape generations of York and other CUNY students, many of whom go on to earn graduate and post-graduate degrees and build flourishing careers.