Rockland Community College Awarded $3 Million Federal Grant for AI Initiative

Yisroel R.

Rockland Community College has secured a $3 million federal grant for a new five-year initiative aimed at bringing artificial intelligence (AI) into the classroom while helping students prepare for an increasingly technology-driven workforce.

The funding, awarded through the federal Title III Strengthening Institutions Program, will support the college's new Artificial Intelligence for Momentum initiative, known as AIM, which began this month and will run through September 2031.

The program will focus on expanding AI literacy among students, faculty, and staff, while also using AI-based technology to help students with their academic progress and increase the number who remain in school and complete their programs. Faculty and staff will receive training on using AI in teaching, student support, and college operations.

“Artificial intelligence is transforming how we learn and work, and our students must be prepared for this changing landscape,” RCC President Dr. William P. Mullaney said, adding that the funding will allow the college to integrate AI into both the classroom and the broader student experience.

Congressman Mike Lawler said the investment will help RCC expand AI education and prepare students for the changing workforce, while also stressing the need for safeguards as the technology continues to develop.

The grant will fund personnel, faculty development, new technology, training, student-success systems, and evaluation efforts over the five-year period, with RCC gradually incorporating the new programs into its regular operations.