Atlantic City Students, Teacher Honored at MBCA Spring Scholarship Luncheon

ATLANTIC CITY – The Atlantic City Metropolitan Business & Citizens Association honored six students and one teacher from the Atlantic City Public Schools on Thursday, May 7, 2026, during its Annual Spring Scholarship Luncheon.

Dr. La'Quetta S. Small commended the honorees and the continued partnership between the school district and the business community.

“Our students and educators continue to demonstrate the excellence, resilience and leadership that make Atlantic City proud,” Dr. Small said. “We are grateful to the Metropolitan Business & Citizens Association for investing in the future of our young people and recognizing the hard work of those who inspire achievement every day in our schools.”

MBCA includes 12 casinos, more than 350 local businesses, approximately 50 nonprofit organizations and more than 100 citizens. The organization touts itself as inclusive and committed to serving the greater Atlantic City area. Students and educators from several school districts were also honored during the luncheon.

Dr. Barbara Gaba, President of Atlantic Cape Community College, who is retiring in June, served as the keynote speaker.

Darchele Todd, a teacher at Sovereign Avenue School, received the Outstanding Teacher Award.

Edgar Comacho-Garcia, Jayden Hemphill, Aryiane Hill, Amely Betancourt-Pelez, Jeet Parekh and Taison Parker received scholarships from various organizations.

Mayor Marty Small Sr. delivered opening remarks and encouraged the students to pursue higher education and return to Atlantic City to help strengthen the community.

“We believe wholeheartedly in education,” Mayor Small said. “Education is the key.”

To see a gallery from the event, click the link: https://photos.app.goo.gl/6bouhiSE2KMgSain7