Centenary University recently recognized 14 students – and one dog – for excellence in science studies during a ceremony that was held virtually due to the COVID-19 pandemic.

The honorees included three Warren County residents:

• Janell Chuddley, Blairstown, Certificate of Merit—Forensic Science
• Pier Semanchik, Great Meadows, Outstanding Achievement in Science (2^nd or 3^rd year student)
• Samantha Johnson, Hackettstown, Certificate of Merit—Environmental Science

In addition to students, the university recognized Brutus, a service dog owned by Senior Merit Award winner Jasmine Steinwand of Cliffside Park, with a special honor called the Greatest Science Helper Award for his constant calming presence on Centenary’s campus, especially in science labs, this year.

Centenary University’s science students have gained national acclaim for their outstanding accomplishments in scientific research and presentation. Earlier this year, four Centenary students placed in the top 10—including first and second place—at an international research conference, besting Ivy league institutions and research powerhouses including Harvard, Yale, Cornell, Stanford, and Johns Hopkins. In addition, the university’s pre-vet graduates have attained a near-perfect acceptance rate to competitive veterinary schools over the past three years.