Coastal Conversations
Education has the power to open doors, strengthen communities, and create opportunities for people of all ages. As director of the Cape May County Campus and Community Outreach at Atlantic Cape Community College, Krista McConnell is dedicated to building connections that help students and residents achieve their personal and professional goals.
By fostering partnerships, supporting workforce development and expanding educational opportunities throughout Cape May County, Krista plays an important role in helping the community grow and thrive. In this edition of Coastal Conversations, she shares her passion for education, community engagement and lifelong learning.
AS: Can you tell us a little about your background and what led you to your role as director of the Cape May County Campus and Community Outreach at Atlantic Cape Community College?
KM: My career has always been centered around serving the community and building connections. What drew me to Atlantic Cape was the opportunity to make a meaningful impact by connecting people with education, workforce training and resources that can truly change lives. My goal is to ensure the College is more than just a place to earn a degree; it’s a hub for workforce development, lifelong learning, economic growth and community engagement.
AS: What does your role involve, and what do you enjoy most about connecting the college with the Cape May County community?
KM: My role is really about being a connector. I oversee the day-to-day operations of our Cape May County campus while also serving as the bridge between Atlantic Cape and the community we serve. What I enjoy most is seeing partnerships turn into real results. Whether it’s helping a local business find workforce training, creating opportunities for nonprofits to collaborate, introducing high school students to college through our Early College programs or hosting community events that bring people together, it’s incredibly rewarding to know those connections make a difference.
AS: Atlantic Cape Community College offers many opportunities for students of all ages. What are some of the programs or initiatives you’re especially excited about?
KM: One is our new Small Animal Science program, which opens the door for students who are passionate about animal care and veterinary-related careers. I’m also very excited about the growth of the Cape May County bizHub, our Small Business Resource Center. Another initiative that’s close to my heart is the expansion of our Nonprofit Resource Center. What ties all of these initiatives together is that Atlantic Cape isn’t just educating students, we’re investing in our entire community.
AS: Workforce development has become increasingly important. How is the College helping prepare students for today’s careers while meeting the needs of local employers?
KM: Workforce development is one of Atlantic Cape’s highest priorities because our goal is to ensure students graduate with the skills that employers are looking for today. We’re also helping to build the future workforce by expanding opportunities for high school students through dual enrollment and Early College programs, giving them a head start on college and career pathways.
AS: Community partnerships are a big part of your work. Can you share how collaborating with local businesses and organizations benefits both students and the community?
KM: Community partnerships are truly at the heart of what we do at Atlantic Cape, especially in Cape May County. That’s really our mission, to be more than just a place where people earn a degree. We want Atlantic Cape to be a true community partner that helps improve the quality of life and economic vitality of Cape May County.
AS: Many people think college is only for recent high school graduates. What would you say to adults who are considering returning to school or learning a new skill?
KM: I would tell them it’s never too late to invest in yourself. One of the things I love most about Atlantic Cape is that we truly serve students at every stage of life. Whatever brings someone through our doors, we meet them where they are. Whether they’re looking to earn a degree, complete a workforce certification, strengthen their technology skills or explore a completely new career, we’re here to support them every step of the way.
AS: What has been one of the most rewarding moments in your career, and what continues to inspire your work in higher education?
KM: It’s hard to choose just one moment because the most rewarding part of my career has always been seeing people realize opportunities they never thought were possible. What continues to inspire me is that every day is an opportunity to help someone take the next step in their journey.
AS: Looking ahead, what are your goals for the Cape May County campus, and what message would you like to share with our readers about the value of lifelong learning?
KM: Looking ahead, my goal for the Cape May County campus is to continue expanding our impact as both an educational institution and a community resource. If there’s one message I’d like to leave with your readers, it’s this: it’s never too late to learn. Education isn’t something that ends when you graduate, it’s something that empowers you throughout your life. At Atlantic Cape, we’re not just preparing students for their first job, we’re preparing people for every chapter of their lives.
A big thank you to Krista, for sharing her story and for her dedication to expanding educational opportunities throughout Cape May County. Her commitment to connecting people with the resources they need to succeed is truly appreciated.
Coastal Conversations highlights people in our community who are making a meaningful impact. If you know someone who would be a great fit for a future column, please contact me at ShoreCoastalConversations@gmail.com.
From the shore to your door, let’s keep the conversation going.
