The basics:

• $2M donation funds new STEM Scholars Pathway Program at Stockton University
• Scholarships up to $10K per year, renewable for four years
• Program includes advising, internships, dual enrollment, career support

A $2 million gift from the Levine and Gormley family foundations will fund a new STEM Scholars Pathway Program at Stockton University. The donation aims to expand access to science, technology, engineering and math education for students from Atlantic County.

The initiative will provide scholarships of up to $10,000 per year, renewable for up to four years. Additionally it will offer academic advising, professional development and career support.

Longtime Atlantic County residents and community leaders former state Sen. Bill Gormley and his wife, Ginny (from Margate), and Lee and Sandra Levine (from Longport) donated the funds. The families have also supported Stockton previously, including a $100,000 gift in November. That funding will benefit students in the university’s Master of Social Work program.

“This is the kind of giving that lifts students, fuels dreams and ripples outward to strengthen the entire region,” said Stockton President Joe Bertolino. “Today, we’re celebrating a gift that goes far beyond dollars. It’s about believing in our students, investing in their potential and building a future we can all be proud of.

“It’s a partnership rooted in care and vision, one that will open doors for generations to come.”

About the program

The Levine-Gormley STEM Scholars Pathway Program will select up to 10 students per year through a cohort-based model. The plan design will provide peer support, aligned advising and targeted professional development.

A selection committee will identify students in their junior year of high school. That group will include representatives from Stockton as well as the Atlantic County Institute of Technology. They will receive early decision admission to Stockton and have access to dual enrollment courses.

Once enrolled, students will participate in enrichment programming at Stockton’s Atlantic City campus. Topics will include career preparation, internships, industry engagement and networking opportunities.

“This is another great chapter in the story of Stockton Atlantic City,” said Bill Gormley. “I want to acknowledge Atlantic County Executive Dennis Levinson, who was a driving force in support of Stockton coming to Atlantic City, Jon Hanson and Chris Paladino from the Atlantic City Development Corp. — a true real estate dream team — and John Scarpa, whose support has helped to elevate the campus.

“All of us, Lee and I, and all those who have contributed to this project, should be proud of this presence in the city and the future of this campus.”

Commitment to AC

“I believe that Stockton University’s commitment to Atlantic City is the most important factor that Atlantic City has going forward,” said Lee Levine. “This program will help local gifted kids become educated here. And if they’ve been educated here, maybe some of them will stay here, and we can develop a city and a county that’s tech-oriented that people will come to.

“I’m hoping this project will help those kids get the education that a great university would give them.”

I believe that Stockton University’s commitment to Atlantic City is the most important factor that Atlantic City has going forward.
– Lee Levine, Longport and philanthropist

Bertolino added, “This program is about more than scholarships. It’s about belonging. It will create a cohort of STEM-focused students from Atlantic County, support them as they move through their degree programs, and help them build confidence, community and purpose along the way.

“It tells students: You matter. You belong here. And Stockton is here for you.”

Part of a Vision

Michael Charlton, president and CEO of AtlantiCare, said the partnership reflects the bold, community-rooted investment envisioned by the company in its Vision 2030 strategy.

“By working alongside Stockton University and local leaders to create a clear, affordable STEM pathway for Atlantic County students, we are strengthening educational access, building our future workforce, and advancing economic mobility in the communities we serve,” said Charlton. “Developing local talent and creating equitable opportunities are essential to improving long-term health, prosperity and life outcomes across our region.

“We are proud to support this extraordinary generosity and applaud the leadership and commitment of Senator and Mrs. Gormley and Mr. and Mrs. Lee Levine in making this opportunity possible for students in our community.”