Atlantic Cape Honors Class of 2020 With Virtual Graduation

In an unprecedented year with the COVID-19 pandemic, it was important to Atlantic Cape Community College to celebrate the achievements and hard work of the Class of 2020. With input from students, faculty, and staff, the College designed a virtual graduation, which took place on June 11 at 6 p.m. through YouTube, Facebook, and on Atlantic Cape’s website. Over 700 graduates received their degree in a unique ceremony which included all the pomp and circumstance of a traditional ceremony with keynote speakers, graduate name announcements, and a dedicated slide for each graduate.

Atlantic Cape students held remote viewing parties with their family and friends to celebrate and graduates shared their photos and videos on social media by using the hashtag #AtlanticCape2020. Friends, family members, and members of the Atlantic Cape community including faculty and alumni participated live by congratulating graduates on their degrees. 

Dr. Gaba welcomed the Class of 2020 in the virtual ceremony, and Mr. Dennis Kelly, an Atlantic Cape graduate, and Veteran delivered the commencement speech. Mr. Kelly currently serves as the Senior Vice President and Chief Enrollment Officer at Wilmington College. There were also speeches by Student Government Association President Joelle Motley and remarks by the High Honors Student Madison Conway.
During her speech, Atlantic Cape president Dr. Barbara Gaba spoke about how inspired she was by the graduates. “The way our students have handled their personal, financial, and academic challenges this summer was nothing short of admirable. The Class of 2020 rose to the challenge and ultimately persevered.” She concluded by stating  “I truly believe that you can change the world. You are the leaders of the future and have in your hands the tools to make a real impact in our community and the world.”  

Additionally, local community activists and freeholders participated in this special ceremony by recording video messages to share with the graduating class. Middle Township native and author, Stedman Graham encouraged students to become lifelong learners.  Atlantic and Cape May County Freeholders Amy Gatto and Gerald Thornton congratulated students on their accomplishments and wished them future success. 
In addition to having a virtual ceremony, the Class that graduates in June is invited to walk with the fall graduates in a traditional Commencement on December 5, 2020, at Harrah’s Atlantic City. The nursing graduates will also be recognized with a formal pinning ceremony this fall.

For more information and to view the graduation visit atlantic.edu/graduation.