Hartwick College Strengthens Commitment to Rural Education with HartLand Promise

For many potential college students in rural areas, the notion of a liberal arts education seems prohibitive. In our region especially, the thought of attending a private college comes with affordability concerns.

To its neighbors, Hartwick College says “Think again.”

To underscore its commitment to providing affordable opportunities for the liberal arts to students from rural areas in upstate New York, Hartwick College announces The HartLand Promise, which will make attending the school comparable to, or in some cases less than, a four-year public college or university in New York state.

Through the HartLand Promise, which begins in the fall of 2023-24, eligible Hartwick students will pay $8,775 in tuition and fees. To be eligible, students must live in or attend high school or college in the following counties: Otsego, Chenango, Delaware, Herkimer, Madison, Montgomery, Oneida, and Schoharie; must be accepted as full-time, first-time Hartwick students taking 12 credits; and must reside on campus.

Founded in 1797, Hartwick has deep ties to the citizens of New York state. The HartLand Promise serves as another example of the College’s and historic commitment to the region. This additional support will serve the approximately 6,500 current high school seniors in the 97 public high schools and 11 private high schools within these eight counties. Transfer students living or attending colleges and universities in the eight counties are also eligible.

“We understand a liberal arts education may seem financially out of reach by many in our region, but we feel important, life-changing decisions should not feel restricted because of where you live,” said Hartwick College President Darren Reisberg. “For us, the HartLand Promise very clearly indicates our support for our rural neighbors. By taking advantage of this program, students can leverage the myriad opportunities available at a private, liberal arts, residential college in their own backyard – and they can do so affordably.”

“As an Oneonta native, it was very important to me to go to school in the area,” said Skylar Thompson ’19, a political science major. “I made and built many connections in this area and wanted to keep those going. I still live in this area and hope to for a very long time.”

Thompson said he had hoped to stay in the area after graduation if he could build a career here. He did, taking positions with local banks and even becoming a member of the Oneonta Town Board.

“We know that when students from rural areas are able to pursue their college goals without leaving the region, they are more likely to stay enrolled for the duration of their program,” said Reisberg. “We’re launching this initiative because we know that when these students graduate, they are more likely to live and work within their communities, which contributes to the economic prosperity and vitality of our region.”

For more information on The HartLand Promise, visit the program webpage or contact Admissions at 607-431-4150 or admissions@hartwick.edu.