Investing in the Future: Atlantic City Honors 113 Local Scholars at Steel Pier

The City of Atlantic City turned its spotlight on the future by hosting a powerful and emotional celebration at the historic Steel Pier. The occasion honored 113 recipients of the Mayor Marty Small, Sr. Scholarship, recognizing the academic achievements, dreams, and determination of local students who represent the city’s next generation of leaders.

The event was a true community moment, filled with pride, hope, and gratitude. Students stood proudly alongside their families as they accepted their ceremonial checks, posed for photos with Mayor Marty Small, Sr., and shared in the excitement of a milestone that brings them one step closer to achieving their academic and career goals.

Each scholarship, valued at up to $10,000, was awarded to eligible Atlantic City residents. The recipients included a diverse mix of students—incoming college freshmen, current undergraduates, and those pursuing Masters, Doctorate, or Trade School education. This year’s group represented a wide range of aspirations: future nurses, engineers, educators, entrepreneurs, and more.

Funds were split into two disbursements—half for Fall 2025, and half for Spring 2026—to ensure continued support throughout the school year. While the checks handed out during the event were symbolic, the real funds were sent directly to the recipients’ academic institutions, reinforcing accountability and purpose.

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The choice of Steel Pier as the venue was symbolic. With its rich history and iconic status, the Pier represented resilience, renewal, and the city’s ability to evolve while staying grounded in community values. Against the backdrop of the Atlantic Ocean, the event reflected Atlantic City’s enduring spirit and its bright future.

In his address, Mayor Marty Small, Sr. spoke from the heart. He shared how deeply committed his administration is to uplifting youth, removing barriers to education, and building pathways to success. Since the scholarship program launched in 2023, it has awarded hundreds of Atlantic City residents with direct financial support—made possible through the city's allocation of American Rescue Plan funds under the "Addressing Educational Disparity" category.

This year’s awards expanded eligibility beyond just Atlantic City High School students, opening doors for all residents regardless of what high school they attend or attended. That inclusiveness contributed to a record number of applications in 2025, demonstrating a growing awareness and demand for educational opportunity in the city.

The presence of parents, educators, mentors, and city leaders made the event even more meaningful. They served as living proof of the power of a community that comes together to invest in its youth. Their cheers, applause, and tearful moments reminded everyone of what this celebration truly stood for—opportunity, equity, and hope.

#LiveinAC: A City That Believes in Its Students

Beyond the celebration itself, the event was a powerful call to action. It reminded residents, alumni, and stakeholders that supporting education is a shared responsibility. Whether through mentoring, sponsorship, or simply sharing resources, everyone has a role to play in shaping the future of Atlantic City’s young people.

By honoring these scholars, the city not only celebrated achievement but also sent a strong message: Atlantic City believes in its students. That belief is now being carried by 113 individuals who will go on to pursue their education with confidence and pride.

#InvestinAC: Scholarships That Change Lives

The 2025 Mayor Marty Small, Sr. Scholarship Celebration was more than just an event—it was a statement of purpose. It was a reminder that when a city invests in education, it plants the seeds for lasting change, not just in one life—but across generations.

Programs like this make Atlantic City more than a beach destination—they make it a place where families can thrive, where young people can see a future, and where investment in people drives progress.

To see highlights and photos from this inspiring evening, check out the full photo gallery at the link below.

Event Photos

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#LiveinAC  |  #WorkinAC  |  #InvestinAC

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