Rising Atlantic Cape Graduates Gather Together for Grad Fair to Celebrate Their Academic Accomplishments

MAYS LANDING — Members of the Atlantic Cape Community College Class of 2024 got a jump start on graduation preparations as they gathered for a day of camaraderie, celebration and entertainment at Grad Fair 2024 on the Mays Landing campus on April 25.

As they traversed the G Building, the soon-to-be graduates picked up their cap and gowns, and decorated them too; took formal and informal photographs in full graduation regalia and casual attire; met with various college departments to finalize graduation odds and ends; spoke with Alumni Association representatives about remaining in-touch with the college following graduation; and, of course, enjoyed free food, snacks, desserts, beverages, live musical entertainment and cake as well.

The highlight of the afternoon was the Graduation Toast as students packed the Student Center lobby to raise a glass of sparkling cider to acknowledge the successes and accomplishments of the Class of 2024.

Student Government Association President and rising graduate Sultana Zakia saluted her fellow classmates during the Graduation Toast speech.

“I am thrilled to see all of you here today. To all of our graduates, including me, as we stand on the brink of an adventure, always remember that education is not just about what you have learned in your textbooks, but it’s about the lessons you have learned here at Atlantic Cape,” said Zakia.

Several students won valuable raffle prizes including free graduation cap and gown, gift baskets full of Atlantic Cape swag and goodies, and gift certificates as well.

“It is both an honor and a privilege to stand before you today as you embark on this momentous occasion in your life. This time represents many hours of hard work, dedication and determination,” said Chris Mularz, advancement officer, Atlantic Cape Foundation. “So, as you prepare to embark on your next journey, I would like to congratulate each and every one of you on your accomplishments, your commitment to academic excellence and personal growth.”

Also, taking part in the afternoon’s festivities were six Pleasantville High School seniors who are simultaneously graduating with their associate’s degrees after taking part in Atlantic Cape’s Early College Program. Jake Reynoso, Edixza Cabrera, Aiddys Ramirez, Tashana Gibson, Jennifer Mercado and Natasha Feliciano all posed for photos in their respective caps and gowns, and spoke about how special it is to graduate.

“To graduate from Atlantic Cape means a lot and to go for any challenges that come your way no matter how hard it gets to achieve a higher education,” said Gibson.

“This means that I have completed a small step in the long journey of life. It’s exciting to be able to graduate because not many people get this opportunity,” said Reynoso. “It is really inspiring being able to prove to myself that I could do this.”

This event was sponsored by the Office of Student Affairs & Enrollment Management in partnership with Student Activities, the Student Government Association and the Atlantic Cape Alumni Association.

The 57^th Annual Commencement ceremony will be held on Thursday, May 16, 10:30 a.m. on the Mays Landing campus Quad. This year’s commencement keynote address will be delivered by Dr. Brian Bridges, secretary of higher education, State of New Jersey.

Dr. Bridges is responsible for policy development and coordination of higher education activities for the State. He also coordinates strategic initiatives, informed by the State Plan for Higher Education, to enhance postsecondary opportunity with a focus on equity, access and affordability for students from all backgrounds. As part of Governor Murphy’s administration, Dr. Bridges has supported expansion and development of statewide programs such as the state’s Community College Opportunity Grant (CCOG) and the Educational Opportunity Fund (EOF).

Visit atlanticcape.edu/graduation for more information on Commencement 2024.

About Atlantic Cape Community College

Atlantic Cape Community College is a Middle States accredited, 2022 Achieving the Dream Leader College and Hispanic Serving Institution proudly serving the residents of Atlantic and Cape May counties. As a comprehensive, two-year community college, Atlantic Cape offers 47 undergraduate degree programs, and 33 certificate and professional series programs at its Mays Landing, Atlantic City and Cape May campuses. Atlantic Cape is home to the renowned Academy of Culinary Arts, rated the top culinary school in New Jersey, and for more than 50 years, our highly-acclaimed Nursing program. Atlantic Cape also partners with more than 30 colleges and four-year universities to offer students the opportunity to seamlessly earn a bachelor’s degree upon graduation.