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SUNY Canton Partners with Caring Gene to Strengthen Healthcare Workforce in Upstate New York

The college joins a state-funded program to address healthcare workforce shortages and reduce barriers to career advancement; enrolled students receive fully covered tuition and books, among other support, as communities benefit from greater access to quality care.

Canton, NY (07/22/2025) — SUNY Canton has entered a partnership with the Caring Gene Career Pathways Training Program (CPT) to address healthcare workforce shortages in the hardest-hit areas of New York State, reduce barriers to career advancement, and support individuals seeking to become compassionate professionals in the healthcare industry.

Through this partnership, eligible New York State residents and residents of certain bordering states receive full coverage of tuition, books, and academic fees while pursuing education in 13 healthcare fields. The program, administered by the Iroquois Healthcare Association and funded by the New York State Department of Health, supports both new healthcare workers and current professionals seeking career advancement.

"SUNY Canton's Nursing programs combine the college's signature hands-on training with a deep commitment to community care," said SUNY Canton President Zvi Szafran. "Partnering with the Caring Gene strengthens our shared mission to prepare skilled and compassionate professionals who are ready to serve our region and the state's high-need areas."

The college offers a one-year Licensed Practical Nursing certificate and a two year Registered Nursing associate degree. Both are included in the Caring Gene initiative.

To qualify for the program, students must commit to a three-year service commitment with a healthcare, behavioral health, or social care network provider in New York State that serves a patient population of at least 30% Medicaid-reliant or uninsured individuals. Additionally, students must complete their degree by Spring 2027 and fulfill the service requirement by 2031.

"SUNY Canton shares our commitment to investing in the next generation of New York State healthcare workers," said Kevin M. Kerwin, Esq., President and CEO of Iroquois Healthcare Association. "This program is an important step toward strengthening our healthcare workforce and expanding access to quality care in the communities that need it most. We look forward to working with SUNY Canton to recruit and guide candidates through the Caring Gene's CPT program."

The Caring Gene's CPT program offers two distinct tracks: one for individuals aspiring to enter the healthcare industry, and another for current professionals looking to advance their careers.

The Caring Gene's case specialists will guide participants throughout their educational journeys, ensuring they receive services and support to enter the healthcare workforce, and provide career advancement opportunities for current healthcare employees. In partnership with the Caring Gene, SUNY Canton will actively recruit eligible students to apply and complete their training in healthcare career pathways including nursing, professional and technical roles, and front-line public health workers.

Individuals who are interested in enrolling in the CPT program can learn more about eligibility by visiting the Caring Gene's website: caringgene.org.

To inquire about studying at SUNY Canton in Nursing, or any of the college's health-related fields, please contact SUNY Canton Admissions at 315-386-7300, or email admissions@canton.edu. The college is hosting a series of informational events designed specifically for students and their families over the summer months, including extended virtual hours on Tuesday evenings, Saturday visit days, and a special Summer Splash event on Saturday, July 26.

About the Caring Gene:

The Caring Gene Healthcare Career Pathways Training Inc. is a not-for-profit organization and an affiliate of the Iroquois Healthcare Association. It is dedicated to helping people start and grow their health, behavioral health, and social care careers in New York, providing comprehensive support to individuals who have a natural calling to care for others. Learn more at caringgene.org.

About Iroquois Healthcare Association:

Iroquois Healthcare Association (IHA) is a regional healthcare trade organization representing 54 hospitals and health systems, spanning over 28,000 square miles, across 32 counties of Upstate New York. IHA is the leading resource for facilities and professionals bringing quality health care to the region. IHA represents the unique needs of rural, small community safety-net providers to large, academic medical centers in Upstate New York's urban areas through advocacy, education and information, cost-savings initiatives and innovative business solutions.

Discover SUNY Canton, where innovation meets opportunity. The college's career-focused educational programs emphasize hands-on and applied learning opportunities in digital design, engineering technology, health, information technology, management, public service, and veterinary technology. Faculty members bring real-world experience and exceptional academic expertise to the classroom. As a leader in online education, SUNY Canton offers unmatched flexibility with hundreds of courses and 25 comprehensive degree programs offered completely online. The SUNY Canton Kangaroos compete at the NCAA Division III level and are members of the SUNYAC. In addition to its 15 traditional teams, SUNY Canton offers coed varsity esports and cheerleading.

Media Attachments

SUNY Canton students revive a patient in a Nursing simulation lab. The college has entered a partnership with the Caring GeneĀ® Career Pathways Training Program to address healthcare workforce shortages.

SUNY Canton

Greg Kie, kie@canton.edu, 315-386-7300

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