SUNY Canton Professor Maureen P. Maiocco shows Congresswoman Elise Stefanik resources in the Early Childhood program labs. Photo submitted by SUNY Canton.

CANTON -- Congresswoman Elise Stefanik visited the SUNY Canton campus on Friday.

Stefanik and college representatives spoke about hands-on education, particularly science, technology, engineering and math. They also discussed the cost of higher education and the reauthorization of the Higher Education Act, according to SUNY Canton.

“We need to have a discussion at the national level about college affordability,” Stefanik said. “Fortunately, we have some great institutions in Northern New York that are cost-effective, and SUNY Canton is one of them.”

Her visit included a discussion with students who are enrolled in the college's early childhood program and a tour of the program's lab facility. Stefanik asked students about their career goals and noted the importance of job creation in the North Country to allow graduates who want to stay in the area the opportunity to do so, SUNY Canton said.

She also stopped at SUNY Canton's Small Business Development Center and met with the owners of Adirondack Operations LLC, Mary Anne and Craig M. Kaputa, who will be working in conjunction with the college under the state's Start-Up NY program. The partnership between Adirondack Operations and SUNY Canton, the school said.

“It was an honor to host congresswoman Stefanik and speak with her about issues important to higher education in the North Country and showcase our hands-on programs,” said SUNY Canton Executive Director for University Relations Lenore VanderZee. “We know she will be a great advocate for us in Congress, and we look forward to continue working with the congresswoman and her outstanding team.”