York College Joins Record-Breaking CUNY ADA Celebration

York College Student Wellness and Resources recently joined CUNY’s 36th anniversary celebration of the Americans with Disabilities Act at Queens College, the University’s largest ADA celebration to date.

York proudly brought 70 students and staff, reflecting the College’s commitment to accessibility, inclusion and student success.

Distinguished guests included Executive Vice Chancellor and University Provost Alicia M. Alvero, Vice Chancellor for Student Affairs Denise B. Maybank, Vice Chancellor for Government Affairs Dermot Smyth, Queens College Interim President Elizabeth “Betsy” Hendrey and Dr. Chris Rosa, Chief Operating Officer of The Viscardi Center.

Longtime emcee Jay Hershenson, vice president for communications and marketing and senior advisor to the president at Queens College, invited York College’s own Charmaine Townsell to kick off the excitement with the familiar call, “Is CUNY in the house?” The crowd responded with enthusiastic cheers.

Throughout the July 23^rd celebration, York students connected with University leaders and elected officials, shared their experiences and strengthened their leadership skills, professional networks and sense of belonging.

A highlight came when Townsell, senior director of Student Wellness and Resources, and York students received citations recognizing their advocacy, leadership and service to students across CUNY. The recognition followed the securing of an $800,000 New York City Council investment in CUNY students with disabilities.

“I am honored by this recognition and grateful to everyone who champions accessibility and inclusion,” Townsell said. “This investment shows what we can accomplish together. I thank York College’s leadership, my Student Wellness and Resources team, the University Student Senate (USS), the CUNY Coalition for Students with Disabilities (CCSD), CUNY Disability Programs, NYPIRG and our CCSD@York student leaders for helping expand opportunities for CUNY students.”

The celebration also welcomed NYS Senators Toby Ann Stavisky and John C. Liu and NYS Assembly Members Alicia Hyndman, Khalil Anderson, David Weprin, Steven Raga and Catalina Cruz.

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York extends its appreciation to the Queens College Committee for Disabled Students (CDS) for hosting and highlighting the power of accessibility, student leadership, and community.