As reported by the Buffalo News, Senator Sean Ryan highlighted the critical role of New York’s state university system, particularly SUNY, in driving economic development. SUNY generates an annual economic impact of $31 billion, with each dollar invested yielding $8.67 in returns for the state. Ryan emphasized that prioritizing funding for higher education and workforce training programs is essential for cultivating a skilled and educated workforce that supports key professions, many of whom are SUNY graduates.
Additionally, Ryan pointed to recent investments—including the establishment of the Empire AI Consortium at UB—which positions New York at the forefront of AI research for the public good. He believes that focusing resources on SUNY and related initiatives not only strengthens the economy but also helps build a stable middle class.