SUNY Delhi Receives Grant to Expand Outdoor Recreation and Wellness Opportunities

Delhi, NY (10/21/2026) — SUNY Delhi has been awarded an $8,000 grant through the State University of New York's (SUNY) Outdoors for All initiative to expand access to outdoor recreation, enhance campus green spaces, and create new opportunities for students to connect with nature.

The grant will support the creation of a new outdoor amphitheater and learning space on SUNY Delhi's main campus, along with enhancements to the college's Bronco Walking Trail system and 50-acre Outdoor Education Center. Planned improvements include updated trail markings, accessibility features such as stability railings and improved walkways, and upgrades to an existing pollinator garden and labyrinth.

"Our campus is fortunate to be surrounded by the incredible natural beauty of the Catskills, and we want every student to feel welcome and confident exploring it," said SUNY Delhi President Mary Bonderoff. "For some students, college may be their first real opportunity to experience hiking and outdoor recreation. This grant will help us create meaningful experiences and introduce students to the lifelong benefits of connecting with nature."

In addition to physical improvements, the project aims to engage at least 150 additional students through new programming, including guided hikes, nature-based mindfulness activities, and trips to New York State Parks and other outdoor destinations. Students will also participate in gardening and sustainability projects, while nature soundscape recordings accessible through QR codes will encourage mindfulness and relaxation.

"We want students to discover that the outdoors is a place for everyone, regardless of their background or previous experiences," said SUNY Delhi Sustainability Coordinator Jacob Taylor. "By creating more opportunities to explore nature, we hope to help students build confidence, improve their well-being, and develop a greater sense of connection to the campus community."

SUNY Delhi's Outdoors for All Project supports broader SUNY and New York State priorities related to outdoor access, student wellness, sustainability, and environmental stewardship. Improvements and programming are expected to be completed by the end of the 2026-27 academic year.