Honoring Future Leaders: Mayor Small Celebrates 2025 Scholarship Recipients at iconic Steel Pier
Atlantic City proudly celebrated its next generation of changemakers as Mayor Marty Small, Sr. honored the 2025 recipients of the Mayor Marty Small, Sr. Scholarship during a powerful and uplifting ceremony at the historic Steel Pier.
With the Atlantic Ocean as a backdrop, the event symbolized new beginnings and boundless opportunity. Surrounded by proud families, educators, and community members, Mayor Small recognized 113 Atlantic City residents receiving scholarships of up to $10,000 to support their pursuit of higher education, trade certification, and advanced degrees.
“These scholarships represent more than financial support,” said Mayor Small. “They’re an investment in our city’s future—and in your ability to lead, grow, and give back.”
A Community-Funded Commitment to Education
Launched in 2023 using American Rescue Plan funds, the scholarship program was designed to address educational disparities and expand access to opportunity. For Year 3, eligibility was broadened so that any Atlantic City resident—regardless of high school affiliation—could apply.
This year’s recipients include:
High school graduates entering college in Fall 2025
Continuing college students
Residents pursuing graduate degrees
Students entering accredited trade schools
Award funds are split between the Fall 2025 and Spring 2026 semesters, and are sent directly to educational institutions to cover tuition and related academic expenses—ensuring transparency and impact.
A Celebration of Hope and Momentum
The Steel Pier celebration was filled with smiles, cheers, and pride, as students accepted ceremonial checks, posed for photos, and shared their excitement for what lies ahead. Families and supporters gathered to witness a moment that reflected the best of Atlantic City—resilience, community, and belief in the next generation.
Mayor Small reminded the audience that the scholarship is more than a program—it’s a movement rooted in educational equity, civic responsibility, and a vision of long-term progress.
“Supporting our students today builds a stronger, more resilient Atlantic City tomorrow,” he said. “You are not just scholarship recipients—you are future leaders, future business owners, future educators, and future trailblazers.”
Steel Pier: A Symbolic Setting for a City on the Rise
Hosting the ceremony at Steel Pier—a place rich in history and Atlantic City pride—underscored the symbolic weight of the event. With the waves behind them and opportunity ahead, the 2025 recipients were reminded that their city believes in them, stands with them, and is cheering them on every step of the way.
The celebration was not only a personal milestone for each student—it was a reflection of a city that chooses hope over hesitation, investment over inaction, and young people over politics.
As the sun set on Steel Pier, Mayor Small left the students with a final charge: “This city is yours. Go out, achieve, and bring your brilliance back home. Atlantic City is rooting for you.”
