Carlino named Coca-Cola Leader of Promise Scholar

Kelly Carlino, a sophomore at Sussex County Community College, has been named a 2023 Coca-Cola Leaders of Promise Scholar.

Originally from West Milford, Carlino was one of 200 Phi Theta Kappa members in the country to earn the distinction. She will receive a $1,000 scholarship.

The Coca-Cola Leaders of Promise Scholarship Program helps new Phi Theta Kappa members defray educational expenses while enrolled in associate degree programs. Scholars also are encouraged to assume leadership roles by participating in society programs.

They are selected based on scholastic achievement, community service and leadership potential.

Carlino graduated from West Milford High School in 2022. She is majoring in new media communications.

“I am honored to receive the Coca-Cola Scholarship. Their support of me and my future encourages me to keep working hard to achieve my dreams,” she said.

“This scholarship will help me focus my time and attention on my schoolwork by alleviating my financial responsibilities. I plan to graduate in May 2024 from SCCC with my associate degree in new media communications. After graduation, I would love to continue my studies at a four-year college and receive my bachelor’s in graphic design.

Jane Hale Hopkins, president of the Coca-Cola Scholars Foundation, said the foundation has a long history of providing financial assistance to outstanding students at community colleges.

“We are proud to partner with Phi Theta Kappa to make it possible for more deserving students to achieve their educational goals and support tomorrow’s leaders of the global community.”

Monica Marlowe, executive director of the Phi Theta Kappa Foundation, said, “Research shows that Phi Theta Kappa members are four times more likely to complete a college degree than their peers.

“The Leaders of Promise Scholarships recognize students for what they have achieved already and assure that financial need isn’t an obstacle to achieving their academic goals.”

Phi Theta Kappa is the premier honor society recognizing the academic achievement of community college students and helping them to grow as scholars and leaders. The society is made up of more than 3 million members and nearly 1,300 chapters in nine nations.