Cranford, NJ – UCNJ Union College of Union County, NJ student Leandro Batista of Union has been selected as a Kaplan Leadership Scholar, placing him among just 12 community college students selected across the tristate region for this prestigious recognition. The Kaplan Leadership Program recognizes community college students who demonstrate academic excellence, leadership potential, and financial need, supporting high-achieving students as they pursue their educational and professional aspirations.
Batista is pursuing an associate degree in Psychology at UCNJ and has distinguished himself through academic achievement, campus leadership, and a strong commitment to research. He serves as President of UCNJ’s Phi Theta Kappa chapter, the international honor society for two-year colleges, and Vice President of Psi Beta, the national honor society affiliated with the American Psychological Association. He also serves as President of the History Club and is a member of the Student Leadership Council, Brown Family Honors Program, and National Society of Leadership and Success.
His commitment to academic and research opportunities extends beyond UCNJ. This past summer, Batista participated in Princeton University’s Transfer Scholars Initiative (TSI), further strengthening his preparation for transfer and advanced study. Following his anticipated graduation from UCNJ in spring 2027, Batista plans to transfer to a four-year institution to pursue studies in psychiatric research and neuroscience, with the long-term goal of earning an MD-PhD focused on psychiatry and consciousness research. Ultimately, he hopes to establish a clinical research center or contribute to leading research teams in the field.
“Congratulations to Leandro on being selected as a Kaplan Leadership Scholar. This recognition reflects the academic excellence, leadership, and intellectual curiosity he has demonstrated throughout his time at the College,” said UCNJ President Dr. Margaret M. McMenamin. “Leandro has embraced opportunities to lead, conduct research, and prepare for transfer to a four-year institution. His participation in TSI and his commitment to advancing research in speak to the ambition and purpose he brings to his education. We look forward to seeing how he continues to build on this foundation and contribute to his field.”
Batista’s selection as a Kaplan Leadership Scholar reflects the College’s commitment to high-impact educational experiences, student leadership, research, and transfer pathways that prepare students to pursue ambitious academic and professional goals.
For more information on UCNJ, go to https://www.ucc.edu/ and for more information on the Kaplan Leadership Scholar program, go to https://www.kaplanedfoundation.org/
UCNJ is a public comprehensive community college that provides quality, affordable, accessible educational programs to the greater Union County region. It is the first of New Jersey’s 18 two-year colleges, serving both career-minded and transfer-oriented students since 1933. The College offers a wide variety of academic programs and extracurricular activities. UCNJ provides many experiential learning opportunities such as access to the Bloomberg Business Center, Innovation Center, and Student Research Lab Additionally, students at UCNJ attend one of the top community colleges in the country as designated by the Aspen Institute College Excellence Program. To learn more about UCNJ, visit www.ucc.edu.
