MAYS LANDING – Atlantic Cape Community College’s Men of Atlantic Cape (MAC) retention program recognized the academic achievements and dedicated personal accomplishments of five of its member students and a program mentor during the club’s Annual Jacket Presentation Ceremony on May 6 on the Mays Landing campus.
“Today is more than a celebration, it’s a recognition of growth, commitment, and the decision to keep showing up. Men of Atlantic Cape represents the hardships, sacrifices and successes of male students here at Atlantic Cape,” said Jerome Ingram, Jr., Assistant Director, First-Year Experience & Mentor, Men of Atlantic Cape. “This ceremony represents something meaningful for the MAC students, not just what you've accomplished, but what you've become along the way.”
Ingram, Jr., who was joined by fellow MAC mentors Rashawn Martin, Eric Stewart, Emanuel Neil and Bryant Edmondson for the ceremony, discussed the importance that the MAC jacket holds for those students who are privileged to have earned one.
“The MAC jacket is not simply something you wear; it represents a transformation. For many, the journey began with uncertainty, feeling overlooked, disconnected and unsure of where they fit. Today, that story looks different. Today you stand as men who chose to engage, lead, and invest in yourselves and each other, both inside and outside the classroom,” said Ingram, Jr. “This jacket represents brotherhood, accountability, support and unity. It means you're a part of something bigger than yourself, surrounded by individuals who push you and stand beside you. So, when you wear your jacket today, wear it with purpose, let it reflect your pride, your standard, and your belief that belonging here is possible.”
Here are the five MAC member students who earned a jacket this year:
- Jaymin Lucas, a resident of Mays Landing who is currently studying Human Services. Jaymin plans to transfer to a four-year college after graduation. His goal is to eventually become a licensed psychotherapist or counselor.
Vincent Casequin, a resident of Egg Harbor Township who is currently studying Computer Information Systems. After graduating from Atlantic Cape, Vincent plans to transfer to Stockton University. His goals include learning how to cook and becoming more financially comfortable in the future. In his free time, he enjoys playing video games and biking.- Michael Heston, a resident of Atlantic City who is majoring in Liberal Arts with a Sociology option. He will be attending Stockton University in the fall. Mike’s goals include earning a bachelor's degree and eventually a master's in social work with an interest in getting involved in policy creation.
- Andre Chapman–Ames, Jr., a resident of Somers Point who is currently studying Small Aircraft Systems Field Technician. He enjoys watching anime, such as Naruto. He's the first math student to receive a jacket after only his first semester in the MAC program.
- Haleym Vaughn, a native of Abbington, Pennsylvania who is currently studying General Studies. After graduating, he's considering transferring to Penn State or Stockton University. His career goal is to break into the entertainment industry, whether it be music, acting, or producing shows and movies. In his free time, he enjoys singing, gaming, acting, photography, cooking and creating different types of art.
Here is the MAC program mentor who earned a jacket this year:
- Bryant Edmondson, a resident of Vineland who is an intern here at Atlantic Cape currently finishing his master's in social work. His goal is to support student success and foster leadership development among college students. In his free time, Bryant enjoys playing basketball with his son and attending art festivals.
The 2nd Annual MAC Achievement Award was presented to a member student who has exceled among his peers for his outstanding MAC membership, dedication, service to the program and to Atlantic Cape. This year’s award recipient was Alexander Barr, a rising graduate majoring in Media Studies.
“I’m incredibly honored. This program has been crucial to my success, so to be recognized feels amazing. I couldn't have done it without this program, without all the mentors. It's been a safety net for me,” said Barr. “I can't recall how many times I said I would have dropped out if it weren't for these guys. To have that support system, to succeed, and then to be recognized for it, it feels incredible.”
As a member of MAC, students earn the privilege of experiencing many unique opportunities. Members who show unwavering commitment to the program, and achieve at least a 2.5 overall GPA, are entitled to network with external professional agencies and employers; take part in college tours; interact with faculty, staff and guest speakers; and most importantly, enjoy exclusive access to potential professional internships and career opportunities.
View a photo gallery of this event on Flickr at here.
Visit atlanticcape.edu/mac for more information on the Men of Atlantic Cape program.
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About Atlantic Cape Community College
Established in 1964, Atlantic Cape Community College is a Middle States-accredited, Hispanic-serving institution proudly serving the residents of Atlantic and Cape May counties. As a comprehensive, two-year community college, Atlantic Cape offers more than 50 undergraduate degree programs and 34 certificate and workforce development 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 to its highly acclaimed Nursing program for more than 60 years. 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.
