MAYS LANDING – Christopher Stenger, director of the Cape May County bizHub located at Atlantic Cape Community College’s Cape May County campus, was presented with the 2026 Military Veteran Leadership in Business Award during the Cape May County Chamber of Commerce’s 82nd Annual Meeting and Installation Dinner on October 21 at the Wildwoods Convention Center.
This award recognizes veterans of the United States military who own or work in a Cape May County business while demonstrating leadership in the community. This award also recognizes military veterans who continue to exemplify the values of service, integrity, commitment and dedication to others. The nominee must have served in a branch of the armed forces, including active duty, reserves, or National Guard.
Stenger was incredibly honored and humbled to receive this prestigious recognition from the Chamber of Commerce.
“I'm honored to receive this award from the Cape May County Chamber. It is a direct reflection of the fantastic team we have here at Atlantic Cape Community College. Working to make Cape May County better in education and business has truly been a team effort. It was a pleasure to have my wife, Ashley, with me, along with Krista McConnell, Jean McAlister, and Chris Mularz, to share in this recognition, because I wouldn't be able to do what I do without all of them.
“Over the last four years, we have worked hard to build this space and its reputation as a place where business dreams, big and small, can take shape and where Cape May County residents can begin, continue, and accelerate their business journeys. I am truly fortunate to work in a position that allows me to help people in my own community, and I enjoy the rewards of every one-on-one conversation that helps make Cape May County business dreams a reality.”
Chamber President Barbara Stafford Jones, in a letter to Stenger announcing his selection for this award, commended him for his dedication, leadership and service to the Cape May County business community.
“Through your leadership of bizHub in Cape May County you have brought these qualities directly into our business community. Your commitment to helping entrepreneurs and businesses connect with resources, navigate challenges, and find opportunities to grow has made you an important partner in strengthening Cape May County's economy.
“Your military service and your continued commitment to serving others through your professional leadership make this recognition especially fitting. You have taken the principles of leadership and service and carried them forward into the work you do every day on behalf of our businesses and our community.
“What makes this recognition even more special is that you were selected by our Chamber membership. It is a wonderful reflection of the respect you have earned and the impact you are making throughout Cape May County.”
McConnell, Atlantic Cape’s Cape May County campus director, echoed Stafford Jones’ sentiments.
“We could not be prouder of our very own Chris Stenger for receiving the Veteran in Business Award from the Cape May County Chamber of Commerce. As director of the Cape May County bizHub, Chris is dedicated to our community. He works hard every day to support and empower our local small business community. His commitment to helping others succeed makes a real difference in Cape May County. Thank you, Chris, for your service to our country and for your continued dedication to our community,” said McConnell.
Also, during the event, Atlantic Cape Foundation Vice President Terry Budd was presented with the Foundation Service & Dedication Award for her work on the Chamber's Education Foundation.
“On the Foundation Board, we know how Terry always goes above and beyond in her work as a vice chairperson of the executive board, while also co-leading the Restaurant Gala and volunteering at the Annual Scramble FORE Scholarships Golf Tournament. Congratulations to one of Atlantic Cape's Distinguished Alumni and my friend, Terry Budd, for her recognition of unwavering service supporting scholarships for the next generation,” said Foundation Executive Director Jean McAlister.
The Cape May County bizHub is funded in part through a grant with the United States Small Business Administration and in partnership with the United States Department of Agriculture, New Jersey Economic Development Authority, Crest Savings Bank, Cape May Chamber of Commerce and Atlantic Cape Community College.
Visit cmcbizhub.com/ for more information.
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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 33 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.
