Our History
Since 1847, The City University of New York has provided a path to success for generations of New Yorkers. In this rich tradition, Macaulay Honors College offers academically gifted students an exceptional undergraduate education, integrating the vast resources of the City University with New York’s cultural, scientific, and business communities.
Chancellor Matthew Goldstein launched the CUNY Honors College in 2001 with the vision of a program specifically created to serve the most talented and academically prepared of New York’s students.
From its debut in 2001, the program has grown from an inaugural class of 189 to a four-year student body of over 1,200.
In October 2006, a generous gift from Linda and William E. Macaulay enabled the Honors College to purchase and extensively renovate a landmark building on 67th Street to serve as the home of the Honors College. In honor of Mr. Macaulay’s gift, the largest in CUNY’s history, which ensures our future success, the Honors program has been renamed the William E. Macaulay Honors College at the City University of New York.
Our innovative program fosters the depth of understanding and multiple perspectives students need to respond to the challenges of the 21st century.