Atlantic Cape Students Earn New Jersey All-State Academic Team Honors

TRENTON — Atlantic Cape Community College students, Enin Taggart and Priya Momi, were recognized for their scholarly excellence and named as members of the New Jersey All-State Academic Team at the 2024 New Jersey Community College Scholars Celebration on April 25 at the State Museum in Trenton.

Each year, this event recognizes New Jersey’s honors students who have worked incredibly hard and overcome significant barriers to become the state’s very best community college students. These students truly exemplify the true power of community colleges.

Momi, a psychology major from Galloway, NJ who is scheduled to graduate from Atlantic Cape with her associate’s degree in 2025, has earned a 3.9 GPA while being a member of the Phi Theta Kappa (PTK) and Psi Beta honor societies. She is also a member of the Psychology Club and volunteers her time with local food pantries, youth engagement and resource drives.

“Priya’s dedication to serving others truly shines through. Her decision to pursue a degree in psychology was deeply personal and rooted in her innate desire to help others,” said Dr. Natalie Devonish, vice president, Student Affairs and Enrollment Management during Momi’s introductory speech. “In Priya, we see a shining example of selflessness, empathy, and dedication to the betterment of society. Her tireless efforts to uplift and support her community are a testament to her character and her unwavering commitment to making a positive impact.”

Momi’s goal is to attend Rutgers University New Brunswick, earn her Ph.D. in clinical psychology and ultimately become a licensed psychologist. Her PTK Advisor Professor Stephanie Natale-Boianelli had glowing sentiments about her student.

“Priya’s record demonstrates her academic excellence and working with her has revealed that she isn’t just a critical thinker, but a compassionate thinker. In her role as Vice President of Scholarship in our chapter of PTK, she has volunteered her time, expertise, and encouragement in planning and leading valuable scholarship workshops, and helping other students build the skills they need to be successful,” said Natale-Boianelli.

Taggart, a general studies major from Estell Manor who will graduate next month with a 4.0 GPA, is an honors student in Women in American History and General Biology II. He is also a NJ STARS student, a member of PTK and Sigma Kappa Delta English Honor Society, and has received a Morey’s Piers scholarship and was a semifinalist for Point Foundation Flagship scholarship. Taggart is also Vice President of Fellowship in PTK, a member of the Radio Club and Treasurer of the Pride Club.

“Enin has demonstrated exceptional leadership and dedication to his campus community. Yet, it is Enin’s commitment to advocacy and inclusivity that truly sets him apart,” said Dr. Devonish during Taggart’s introductory speech. “Through his work in spreading awareness and acceptance of the LGBTQ+ community, Enin has shown courage, compassion, and a relentless drive to create a more inclusive society.”

Taggart plans to transfer to Rutgers University New Brunswick as a biology program student in the fall.

“Enin’s 4.0 GPA is only the first sign of his outstanding academic achievement. He maintained this level of achievement across upper-level courses in a variety of disciplines, receiving multiple awards for his course projects,” said Natale-Boianelli of Taggart. “Outside the classroom, Enin has contributed his skills and energy to the campus community through work in Pride Club to increase awareness and acceptance of the LGBTQ+ community or in his role as Vice President of Fellowship in PTK.”

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.