Honoring Future Leaders: Mayor Small Awards 2025 Scholarships at Steel Pier

The City of Atlantic City proudly hosted a heartfelt celebration at the iconic Steel Pier, where Mayor Marty Small, Sr. honored the 2025 recipients of the Mayor Marty Small, Sr. Scholarship. The event, held on July 1, 2025, served as a vibrant recognition of academic excellence, determination, and the city's unwavering investment in its youth.

This year, a total of 113 scholarships, each valued at up to $10,000, were awarded to eligible Atlantic City residents. These included incoming college freshmen, current college students entering their sophomore, junior, or senior year, as well as residents pursuing Masters, Doctorate, or Trade School education.

The scholarship funds were divided into two disbursements: half for the Fall 2025 semester and half for the Spring 2026 semester. While recipients received ceremonial checks during the event, the actual funds were sent directly to their respective educational institutions.

Dozens of scholarship recipients attended the event, standing proudly as they accepted their symbolic checks and posed for photos with the Mayor and city officials. The atmosphere was filled with joy and hope, reflecting a community that celebrates academic ambition and future potential.

In his remarks, Mayor Small expressed immense pride in the recipients and emphasized the city’s commitment to supporting higher education. He noted that these scholarships are not just financial aid but a statement of belief in the students’ capacity to create positive change.

Parents, educators, and community members joined the celebration, creating an uplifting and supportive space for students who are now one step closer to their educational and career goals.

The Steel Pier offered a fitting backdrop, rich in Atlantic City history and culture, adding a symbolic layer to the event’s message of progress, resilience, and opportunity.

This year’s celebration reinforced the administration's continued mission: investing in Atlantic City's young minds and helping them thrive beyond high school.

Mayor Marty Small, Sr. reminded the crowd that empowering local students today helps build a stronger, smarter Atlantic City tomorrow.

To relive the moments and see the proud faces of this year’s winners, click the link below for a full photo gallery from the celebration.

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Photo Credit: Ed Lea / City of Atlantic City