Macaulay Honors College at CUNY is a highly selective college where New York’s most promising students receive the financial and academic support to realize their leadership potential.

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Macaulay Honors College offers exceptional students the transformative opportunities to develop their potential beyond what they ever imagine. Macaulay inspires and prepares students to solve the challenges facing New York City, our nation, and the global community.

Dean Dara N. Byrne, PhD

DEAN BYRNE

2022

Dr. Dara N. Byrne was appointed Dean after an extensive national search. She is a CUNY veteran who once served as Director of the Macaulay program at John Jay College.

Dean Pearl and students

Dean Mary C. Pearl

2016

In September, former Macaulay Provost Mary C. Pearl was named Dean. Dean Pearl is a scientist, environmentalist, and educator.

Bill Macaulay

A New, Permanent Home

2006

The college was designated the William E. Macaulay Honors College after a generous gift from City College honors alumnus Bill Macaulay '66 and his wife Linda. The new building was officially opened on April 17, 2008, with a dedication attended by nearly 200 friends of the college, including Senator Charles Schumer, Chancellor Goldstein, and New York City Council member Gale Brewer.

Former Dean Ann Kirschner

Dean Kirschner

2006-2016

Dr. Ann Kirschner was named Dean of Macaulay Honors College in 2006 and served through January 2016. An author and entrepreneur, Dr. Kirschner holds a Ph.D. in English from Princeton University.

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The First Graduates

2005

The first graduating class attends commencement exercises. The Class of 2005 included 189 students, risk takers who were willing to try a brand new program.

Laura Schor

Founding Dean Laura Schor

2001

Dr. Laura S. Schor was appointed the Founding Dean of the CUNY Honors College in 2001, serving from its inception until the graduation of the first class in 2005.

CUNY Honors College Logo

Beginnings

1999

A resolution was approved by CUNY's Board of Trustees to establish the CUNY Honors College during the tenure of Chancellor Matthew Goldstein. His goal: a highly selective college where New York’s most promising students receive financial and academic support.

Macaulay at CUNY

Macaulay students enroll as undergraduates in one of eight CUNY colleges and take most of their courses at their home campus.

Macaulay Honors College Building

All students come to the Macaulay building on Manhattan's upper west side for academic and social time. Spaces within the building may be rented for private events.

Foundation Board & Senior Administration

Macaulay's Board of Directors is a group of esteemed and dedicated New Yorkers who offer their individual expertise as Board members in support of our mission and goals.  

New York City Advantages

Using New York City's unique intellectual, professional and cultural capital to create opportunities to learn.