Who’s Who Gathering At Stockton University Atlantic City Campus

Last evening, an important gathering at the Stockton University Atlantic City, New Jersey campus took place. It has changed the life of dozens of students.

It Was A Who’s Who Event — In attendance Were:

New Jersey Senator Vince Polistina.
Former New Jersey Senator Bill Gormley & Virginia Gormley.
Philanthropists Lee and Sandra Levine.
Stockton University President Joe Bertolino
Dr. Phil Guenther, Superintendent of the Atlantic County Institute of Technology
Joseph Potkay, Principal, Atlantic County Institute of Technology
Atlantic County Commissioners John Risley, Jim Bertino, Maureen Kern & June Dillon-Brynes.
Judge Mike Blee.
Atlantic County Clerk Joe Giralo.
Ventnor City Commissioner Lance Landgraf.
Michael Charlton — President of AtlantiCare.
Chris Seher
Bob Previti

Many more important guests were in attendance, that are too numerous to mention.

Amazing Scholarships Were Awarded

This is one of the most generous and dynamic scholarship programs ever developed in Southern New Jersey history.

Back on January 30, 2026, Senator Gormley announced on behalf of the Levine — Gormley Foundation that a $ 2,000,000 gift was being established to create a STEM Scholars Pathway Program at Stockton University.

Here Are The Initial Students That Will Benefit From The Levine — Gormley Scholarship Program

Last night’s event was all about the students.

Stockton University President Joe Bertolino

This is the kind of giving that lifts students, fuels dreams and ripples outward to strengthen the entire region. 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, said Stockton University President Joe Bertolino.

Former New Jersey Senator Bill Gormley

There is not an ounce of self-promotion in Lee Levine. He is only donating the money because he loves Atlantic City, said Bill Gormley. Lee mirrors what is important locally. He is a graduate of Atlantic City High School, his favorite meal is a White House sub, the most important executive to him is general manager of the Eagles, and he believes the greatest coach of any sport at any time is Stan Bergman. This is another great chapter in the story of Stockton Atlantic City. 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 Corporation - a true real estate dream team - and John Scarpa, whose support has helped to elevate the campus," Gormley added. 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, said Gormley back in January 30, 2026.

New Jersey Senator Vince Polistina

By pairing that academic journey with internship placements at AtlantiCare and exposure to other social innovation and technology-driven opportunities — including initiatives like the New Jersey Economic Development Authority's Strategic Innovation Center — we are connecting classroom learning to the industries shaping our region's future, Polistina said. This is how we keep talent local, fuel innovation and ensure southern New Jersey remains competitive, forward-looking and economically strong. Through initiatives such as this, we have the ability to expand upon existing private-public partnerships but also be able to funnel qualified, local residents to related government entities operating within Atlantic County, such as the Division of Gaming Enforcement, Polistina said. I want to, again, thank Mr. Levine and Senator Gormley for their continued investment in Atlantic County's future, said Polistina.

Michael Charlton — President & CEO — AtlantiCare

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, Charlton said. 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, said Charlton.