Suffern, NY⎯ Rockland Community College (RCC) has been awarded $3 million through the federal Title III, Part A Strengthening Institutions Program (SIP) for a five-year initiative to strengthen teaching and learning, workforce readiness, and student success through artificial intelligence (AI).
The initiative, titled Artificial Intelligence for Momentum (AIM), runs from October 1, 2026, through September 30, 2031. It will focus on two primary goals: 1) strengthening AI literacy, professional development, and instructional innovation, and 2) using AI-enhanced technologies to support students’ academic progress, persistence, and completion.
“Artificial intelligence is transforming how we learn and work, and our students must be prepared for this changing landscape,” said Dr. William P. Mullaney, President of Rockland Community College. “This investment will help us integrate AI into the classroom and student experience, support faculty and staff, and provide students with more personalized support. Through the AIM initiative, we are advancing innovation and preparing graduates with the skills to succeed in an increasingly technology-driven workforce.”
“Preparing our students for the future means ensuring they have the skills and resources to succeed in an increasingly technology-driven workforce. This $3 million investment will help Rockland Community College expand AI education, support faculty and staff, and strengthen student success. As AI continues to advance, I will continue supporting legislation that promotes innovation while establishing appropriate safeguards to ensure this technology is developed and used responsibly,” said Congressman Michael Lawler.
Building AI Literacy and Instructional Capacity
AIM will support AI literacy training and professional development for RCC faculty and staff, with the goal of increasing their knowledge and confidence in using AI tools in teaching, student support, and administrative operations.
The project will support instructional innovation and strengthen the college’s capacity to prepare students for a workforce increasingly influenced by artificial intelligence.
A Five-Year Investment in Institutional Capacity
The five-year grant will support personnel, faculty development, student success systems, technology, training, and evaluation activities. Funding is phased to support start-up and implementation during the early years while reducing reliance on grant funding as systems, workflows, and responsibilities become institutionalized.
The initiative will help RCC develop and strengthen the institutional resources and practices needed to integrate AI into teaching, learning, and student support.