As the school year comes to an end, Centenary University has taken the time to recognize its students for their hard work and leadership throughout the year.

Twenty-one students were recognized at the annual Student Leadership Awards Ceremony, an event that celebrates outstanding contributions to the university and surrounding community. This year’s ceremony was presented virtually due to the current pandemic. 

Award recipients included two Warren County residents: Hackettstown’s Danielle Ferriola and Sara Schaarschmidt.  Ferriola earned the President of the Year Award and Schaarschmidt the Commitment to Justice Award.

Additionally, some student groups were recognized for their contributions to the community. The Black Student Union was named Organization of the Year and Midnight Run, an initiative that drives donated supplies like food and blankets to New York City, was the recipient of the Making a Difference in the Community Service Award.

The university’s mascot, the Cyclone, later personally delivered the awards to the homes of most recipients.

Theatre Arts Students Inducted to Honors Society

Another virtual ceremony inducted 11 theatre arts students into Alpha Psi Omega, the National Theatre Honor Society.

The students have all exhibited excellence in theatrical production, academic work, and community service during their time at Centenary.

While the lockdown has presented challenges to theatre students, the situation has also enabled Centenary faculty and students to find creative ways to advance their theatre studies during the lockdown, according to Carl Wallnau, chairman of the Fine Arts Department and artistic director of Centenary Stage Company, an equity theatre company in residence at the university.

Among the 11 inductees were Ryan Washington, of Allamuchy, Amanda Ackerman, of Hackettstown, and Anna Summitt of Harmony.