Schenectady, N.Y. — State Senator Hugh T. Farley (R.C – Schenectady) today announced a grant of one million dollars toward the establishment of a freestanding campus for the Graduate College of Union University.

The announcement was made at Lamont House, the current home of the Graduate College on the Union College Campus.

“This is one of those events where Schenectady’s proud past meets its unlimited future,” said Senator Farley. “We stand on America’s oldest planned campus, announcing the twenty-first century building which will house New York’s newest college. I am thrilled that the Graduate College will be remaining in Schenectady, and I’m proud that this Senate grant will be an important part of the remarkable transformation of an old industrial site into a place for advanced learning. As Union’s engineers and architects have shaped our city and, indeed, the world, the Graduate College alumnae will meet society’s global challenges in a new century.”

GCUU President Sue Lehrman says the grant is a great vote of confidence in The Graduate College, which became an independent institution in 2003. “We’ve accomplished so much already – and our graduates are among the most sought after and successful in their fields. This will help us to continue providing the best educational opportunities and experiences for our students, and will enrich and support the greater community.”

In fall, 2005 the Graduate College received a $200,000 grant obtained by Senator Chuck Schumer (D-NY) under the FY06 Transportation, Treasure, HUD Appropriations Act, as well as additional foundation and individual support toward the project. Lehrman says that additional requests for support are pending, and will be announced as soon as funds become available.