Centenary University’s 144^th Commencement was held earlier this month under a large tent on the new Anderson Field at the Hackettstown campus.

During the ceremony, 505 graduates received associate, bachelor’s, and graduate degrees. A hooding ceremony for students earning graduate degrees was held earlier on Wednesday, May 8, in the Sitnik Theatre, including the University’s first doctoral class. The Class of 2019 included graduates from Centenary’s main campus in Hackettstown, as well as the School of Professional Studies in Parsippany and Edison.

Stephen M. Somers, owner and president of Vigon International, a leading manufacturer within the flavor and fragrance industry, delivered the keynote address.

River Vale (Bergen County) resident Milissa Plescia was valedictorian of the Class of 2019. She is the first non-traditional, adult student to earn this distinction in University history. The business administration major also celebrates 30 years of working at BASF this year, where she is currently an administrative associate to the senior vice president of human resources North America. The mother of three attended classes at Centenary’s School of Professional Studies and graduated summa cum laude.

During the ceremony, the University also recognized Caitlin C. Wigger, of Clifton Park, N.Y., and Christine DeLuca, of Netcong (Morris County), with the Welsh Prize for academic excellence. A double major in equine studies: pre-vet and biology, Wigger was recognized with the Welsh Prize for traditional students and delivered a graduate reflection on behalf of undergraduates. She is a summa cum laude graduate. DeLuca received the Welsh Prize for non-traditional students. She earned her degree in business administration summa cum laude, attending classes at Centenary’s School of Professional Studies.

In addition, Melissa Coleman, of Hardwick, presented a graduate reflection on behalf of master’s candidates, while Rev. Najee S. Evans, of Hillside (Union County), another member of the Class of 2019, delivered the benediction.

The Centenary University Distinguished Teaching Award was presented to Kris Gunawan, Ph.D., of Hackettstown, who is an assistant professor of psychology. Dr. Gunawan has taught at Centenary for three years and has earned the respect of his colleagues and students at the University. He received his doctorate from the University of Nevada, master’s and undergraduate degrees from California State University, and an associate degree from Mt. San Antonio College in California.

The Joel A. Kobert Award for Teaching, which recognizes an adjunct professor for teaching excellence, was awarded to James Stone, an adjunct professor in the Centenary University Department of Business. A resident of Randolph (Morris County), he is a certified public accountant who earned undergraduate degrees from Fairleigh Dickinson University and Biscayne College/St. Thomas University in Florida. He is a vice president for BASF Americas.