A classroom is seen inside the University at Albany’s School of Nanotechnology, Science and Engineering building in Albany. UAlbany’s invested $85 million to turn the former high school into a state-of-the-art hub where computer scientists and hardware engineers will explore the latest in AI technology.

Exterior of the University at Albany’s School of Nanotechnology, Science and Engineering building on March 7, 2024. The building is a renovated former Albany high school at the corner of Western and South Lake avenues.

Classroom inside the University at Albany’s School of Nanotechnology, Science and Engineering building in Albany.

Over the past year, Albany has experienced major events with the potential to markedly change the city’s fortunes. The first was the closure of The College of Saint Rose, a blow to the city and most of all the institution’s students and employees.

The closure made real the significant gaps left behind when a college shuts its doors: Students displaced, employees out of work, buildings left empty, and neighborhood businesses struggling all threaten a city’s vibrancy. It was undoubtedly a setback for Albany, but it also offered clarity: Higher education can be a transformative force, but it needs support to realize its potential.

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The second was the news that the NY CREATES Albany NanoTech Complex will be home to the........

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