New York City Mayor Bill de Blasio announced a $20 million commitment to CUNY’s Medgar Evers College (MEC), the single largest allocation in the history of the Central Brooklyn institution. The grant is part of the NYC Juneteenth Economic Justice Plan, which seeks to build generational wealth and confront the persistently growing racial wealth gap in the United States.

Medgar Evers College will launch the Brooklyn Recovery Corps to provide over 200 students annually with the opportunity to contribute to the ongoing economic recovery of Brooklyn, focusing on experiences that integrate science, business, public health, or the green economy.

The $900,000 annual investments ($4.5 million over 5 years) will let student fellows gain technical skills, academic credit or paid internships, work experience, career preparation support and engagement with the community, and STEM-focused career placement opportunities.

“We are exceedingly grateful to be named as a beneficiary of funds delineated in Mayor de Blasio’s Juneteenth Economic Justice Plan. As we celebrate Juneteenth, it is fitting that our College named for Medgar Wiley Evers, the civil rights icon who gave his life for the rights and freedoms of others, would be the recipient of this historic and far-reaching investment in education. The founders of our College recognized that higher education is the one of the most effective paths for underserved populations and those from challenged socioeconomic backgrounds to gain social mobility and acquire wealth. With this funding, our students will be better equipped to intentionally prepare for their futures and realize their dreams while contributing to the post-pandemic economic recovery of Brooklyn and New York City. We look forward to working with the New York City Mayor’s Office, our CUNY partners, and our other supporters to continue this important work,” said Dr. Patricia Ramsey, president of Medgar Evers College.