This month, members of the Farmingdale State College (FSC) campus community were elated to gather for an Educational Opportunity Centers (EOC) 60th anniversary celebration with the Long Island Educational Opportunity Center (LIEOC), which was recently named a FourLeaf Best of Long Island winner for best adult education the second consecutive year.

Held in the Campus Center Ballroom, the afternoon event featured food, festivities, and attendance from community partners from across the region including New York State Assemblywoman Jodi Giglio, Suffolk County Legislature Minority Leader Jason Richberg, and representatives from the offices of New York State Governor Kathy Hochul, New York State Assemblyman Kwani O'Pharrow, Nassau County Legislator Cynthia Nunez, and Nassau County Legislator Olena Nicks. 

“Today is, first and foremost, a celebration of us, the connections we have forged, and the lives that we have changed,” said Ann Marie Armstrong, LIEOC interim executive director and dean. “Six decades of empowering upward mobility through education and two Best of Long Island wins aren’t just milestones--they are a testament to what can be accomplished when you lead with heart.” 

“FSC is proud to join the State University of New York and the University Center for Academic and Workforce Development in celebrating the 60th anniversary of our Educational Opportunity Centers and the continued growth, achievements, and impact of our own Long Island Educational Opportunity Center (LIEOC),” said FSC President Robert S. Prezant, PhD. “While the statewide EOC system celebrates 60 years of service, the LIEOC will reach its own 60th anniversary in 2029—a testament to its longstanding commitment to expanding access to education and economic opportunity on Long Island.”

“Workforce development is so important, but a lot of people don’t have these opportunities, so the work that you do is life-changing,” said Assemblywoman Giglio. “I’m happy to be here today and I’m really thrilled that New York State can offer these services for so many that need it to become established in the workforce.” 

“I want to congratulate you on 60 years of dedicated service, of uplifting communities, of uplifting individuals,” said Minority Leader Richberg. “When you’re investing in the community and ensuring that folks are getting the right services, you’re getting the opportunity to say that you can be different,” he added to applause.  

The LIEOC is a nonprofit adult education institution dedicated to providing access to affordable, career‑focused training and academic opportunities for adult learners across Nassau, Suffolk, and Queens counties. As a member of the SUNY system, LIEOC offers a range of programs including high school equivalency (HISET) preparation, English as a Second Language (ESL) courses, job readiness and career training, and supportive services designed to help students achieve educational and professional goals. 

The center also assists with career counseling, college admissions support, and connections to workforce development resources, giving adult learners tools to build confidence and advance in today’s job market. With flexible class schedules and a mission rooted in opportunity and empowerment, Long Island Educational Opportunity Center helps individuals strengthen skills, earn credentials, and pursue meaningful career paths.

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