Three Brookdale Students Named Top NJ Academic Scholars

Three students from Brookdale Community College are being celebrated as some of New Jersey's brightest minds after earning spots on the prestigious 2026 All-New Jersey Academic Team. Adam Deinhardt, Aparajita Sahoo, and Kaitlyn Norcia stood out among hundreds of community college students across the state for their exceptional academics, leadership, and dedication to serving others.

The All-New Jersey Academic Team, presented by the Phi Theta Kappa Honor Society and the Coca-Cola Scholars Foundation, recognizes community college students who excel far beyond the classroom. Each of New Jersey's community colleges can nominate up to four students, making this honor incredibly competitive.

Deinhardt recently received acceptance to Columbia University's Fu Foundation School of Engineering and Applied Sciences, where he'll continue his studies this fall. His academic journey from community college to an Ivy League institution exemplifies the transformative power of higher education at all levels.

Sahoo distinguished herself through her commitment to global citizenship and bringing students together across cultures. She led Students for Global Citizenship and helped plan major campus events including Civility Week and the International Festival, earning her the Outstanding Student Award before graduating this spring.

Norcia balanced academic excellence with creative service to her community. As Vice President of Finance for Phi Theta Kappa and Secretary of the Honors Association, she also volunteers as a clarinetist at her church and performs with the Toms River Multigenerational Orchestra, which raises money for local charities throughout Ocean County.

This fall, Norcia will study accounting at Rider University with plans to become a Certified Public Accountant. Meanwhile, Sahoo is entering the workforce while awaiting approval of her Optional Practical Training work permit.

The Ripple Effect

The success of these three students reflects something bigger than individual achievement. Community colleges serve as accessible pathways to opportunity, allowing students to excel academically while staying connected to their communities through service and leadership.

Their recognition at the annual All-New Jersey Academic Team Awards Ceremony in Vineland celebrates not just their personal accomplishments, but the doors that community colleges open for motivated students from all backgrounds. From global citizenship initiatives to fundraising orchestras to Ivy League admissions, these students prove that excellence can start anywhere.

Three different paths, one common thread: dedication to learning and lifting others along the way.