Our History

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The SUNY Westchester Educational Opportunity Center (WEOC) was officially established in 1973 by the New York State Legislature as part of a statewide network of Educational Opportunity Centers (EOCs), administered by the State University of New York (SUNY). 

These centers were created to expand access to education and job training for individuals who are economically and/or educationally disadvantaged.

Prior to WEOC’s founding, the Cooperative College, based in Mount Vernon, NY, provided college preparatory programs for low-income residents through a network of satellite sites across Westchester County. With the establishment of WEOC, services broadened to include vocational training, academic skills development, and supportive services, thereby addressing a wider range of

student needs.

In 1975, WEOC centralized operations in Yonkers, initially operating at 53 South Broadway, then relocating to 41 Main Street, where it remained for two decades. In 1995, WEOC moved to its current location at 26 South Broadway, Yonkers, NY 10701.

Since its founding, WEOC has evolved to meet the demands of a changing workforce and has remained steadfast in its commitment to educational access and economic empowerment.

The SUNY Westchester Educational Opportunity Center (WEOC) offers tuition-free academic and career training programs for eligible adult learners across New York State. Our mission is to help students gain the skills, knowledge, and confidence to:

• Start a sustainable career 
• Continue their education 
• Improve their quality of life

Our dedicated faculty and staff work closely with students to help them build practical career and life skills, strengthen their confidence and self-awareness, and develop a strong sense of responsibility and leadership, all with the goal of helping them reach their full potential and achieve lasting success. 

WEOC is uniquely positioned to meet the workforce development and educational needs of Westchester County. We are committed to excellence in all we do, and we believe deeply in the power of education to transform lives and communities. 

The SUNY Westchester EOC is the premier adult education institution in Westchester County and a leading center for workforce training and career development. We provide equitable access to high-quality education and serve our students and community with passion, integrity, and pride.