2021 Graduation Spotlights
We Can’t Wait to See Where Atlantic Cape Will Take You!
Congratulations to the Class of 2021. We at Atlantic Cape are so proud of all our graduates. Whether they are starting their first job, making a transition to a dream career, or continuing their education, our graduates have overcome challenges to reach the same goal: a college degree. From here, they will go onward to be the leaders that our community needs. We know that Atlantic Cape alumni are ready to be part of the solution. Here are a few impressive stories from some of our recent graduates. We hope their stories will inspire others and find out where Atlantic Cape can take them.
Cordelia O'Such
Cordelia enrolled in the "Early College Program” at Atlantic Cape at the age of 16. This program enabled her to earn two Associate's degrees while still attending Middle Township High School. Cordelia chose this program because "time was of the essence and saving money was a factor". As a virtual student her senior year, she participated in multiple school activities; National Junior Honor Society, Red Cross Club, cheerleading, and track and field. Cordelia also competes as a member of a dance team and has a part-time job. With Cordelia’s drive and determination, her future is bright. After graduation, she will attend Monmouth University. Thanks to her hard work, dedication, and Atlantic Cape, she is ahead of her dream to go to medical school.
Sedrick Warner Golden
When he enrolled at Atlantic Cape Sedrick was not expecting to make the connections he made. While a student at Atlantic Cape he met people that impacted his life and directed his future for success. He is excited to see what his future holds after earning his Associate’s degree. Through joining clubs like Men of Atlantic Cape and the Communication Awards Club, he was able to earn two Communication awards. Sedrick made connections that will allow him to succeed in life and move forward in his career. This fall, he will be attending Rowan University to study Health Science and Communication. Sedrick would like to remind us that, "not everyone can be the next Bill Gates or Elon Musk, but that does not mean what you do from this point forward will be anything but impactful!"Joelle Motley
Joelle believes college is not the place to fit in, it is the place to stand out! With this in mind, she was very active during her time at Atlantic Cape; joining Student Government, Black Student Alliance, Xennial Radio Show, Center for American Women in Politics, National Student Nurses Association Resolution Committee, Higher Education Student Assistance Authority Student Advisory Committee, and Student Advocate for CCOG. Joelle is grateful she was given the opportunity to attend college and earn a nursing degree at an affordable rate thanks to funding and scholarships available at Atlantic Cape. She feels graduating with this degree will change her life for the better and allow her to enter the in-demand field of nursing. Joelle is proud to be able to help her community and is excited about her future. She will be attending Rutgers University this fall to earn her BSN.
Philip John Santa Maria
Phillip Santa Maria graduated this spring from Atlantic Cape with his Associate’s degree in Science. While earning his degree, Philip did what he loved to do, play baseball. In addition to being an Academic Scholar, the southpaw was a pitcher and played multiple positions for our Buccaneers. This fall Philip plans to attend Stockton University to earn his Bachelor’s degree in Exercise Science and continue playing the sport he loves as an Osprey. He lives by the motto, “There may be people who have more talent than you, but there's no excuse for anyone to work harder than you do” from one of baseball’s greatest players, Derek Jeter.
Valentina Ganta
Valentina knows what a challenge is. At the age of 33, she faced challenges most do not have. Valentina was a nontraditional student who lost her husband to cancer in the middle of a pandemic. Through this grief, she was able to secure a career and financial independence. She graduated with an Associate’s degree in Applied Science this spring. During her time at Atlantic Cape, Valentina joined the Nursing club and PKT. She continues to believe in her dreams. She hopes that her nursing skills, along with her empathy, will help her patients and their families overcome their challenges. Valentina is currently working at Atlantic Care as a nurse’s assistant and tech. She plans to continue her education this fall at a four-year university.Chancellor Michael Harding
Chancellor believes Atlantic Cape has taught him skills to advance in life. He learned the value of critical thinking and to be aware of the world around him. As a member of the Theater Group, he performed in plays and met many friends. As a member of Phi Theta Kappa, he went to the Middle States Region 2018 Convention. Having a disability made taking notes difficult for Chancellor. He had to learn to work with a note taker and use a recording pen to pass his classes. The professors and counselors at Atlantic Cape guided him along the way and were always there to help. His hard work paid off. His advice for future students is "Have fun! Work hard! You can do it. Don't be afraid to seek help, the Atlantic Cape team is there to support you." Chancellor earned his Associate’s Degree in General Studies and plans to do volunteer work and become active in community theater. He also plans to attend Stockton University.
Marta D. Stott
After a long hiatus and retiring from her first career, Marta returned to Atlantic Cape at the age of 60 to earn her Associate’s degree. As a non-traditional student, she followed in the footsteps of her grandmother. Both women attended Atlantic Cape and earned their certification for Social Work. Marta is proud she met challenges head-on and plans to continue her education online at a four-year university to pursue her Bachelor's degree. Atlantic Cape also provided Marta with a great internship that was conducive to completing her graduation requirements. Marta believes in being persistent in your goals! “It will come with struggles but, you will feel a sense of accomplishment when done.”
Robert Arellano
Robert graduated spring of 2021, earning his Associate’s degree in Computer Information Systems. He takes pride in being the first person in his family to earn a college degree. Robert is happy Atlantic Cape had flexible class schedules. This flexibility allowed him to choose classes, whether in person or remotely. Robert is grateful to God, his family, and friends for helping him reach his goals. In the future, Robert plans to continue his education and become a certified IT Tech trainee.
Rose Melanie Shaw
After graduating with honors from Atlantic Cape, Rose plans to attend Stockton University in the fall. She feels Atlantic Cape has taught her how to prepare for a four-year university. Rose learned the importance of time management, networking, stress management, and how to have fun along the way. She was an active member of Phi Theta Kappa, Sigma Kappa Delta, and the Media Club. Rose is grateful for the relationships she has built at Atlantic Cape and the opportunities to learn and grow while pursuing her education. Rose believes in the importance of going until the job is done and always gives 100%.