Listen to this articleThe Centenary University Board of Trustees named Bishop John Schol as the school’s 16th president, to succeed Lt. Gov.-elect Dale Caldwell.
Schol is a highly respected faith, civic and organizational leader. He is also a longtime member of the board of trustees. Schol was consecrated as a bishop in 2004 after serving 25 years as a pastor, community developer and denominational executive. Eight years later, the United Methodists in Greater New Jersey tapped him to lead, a role he held until his retirement in 2024.
He will begin his two-year term as president Dec. 1. Caldwell will remain at the Hackettstown-based university until his departure in January. Centenary says the two will work in collaboration toward a seamless transition to maintain stability and clarity.
The board of trustees noted Schol’s deep commitment to Centenary’s mission to deliver dynamic learning experiences that educate regional and global leaders within a culture of service.
Advancing the mission
“This appointment reflects our confidence in Bishop Schol’s ability to lead the University during this important period,” the board said in statement. “He is an accomplished national and global leader in education, community development, and civic engagement who brings to Centenary decades of experience in organizational growth, student-centered leadership, and global partnerships.
“The two-year appointment will utilize Bishop Schol’s experience and skills to collaborate with the Centenary community and our external partners to build on the more than 150 years of Centenary’s history and further develop its academic strategy, fundraising, enrollment, and operations.”
Schol says he shares Centenary’s ongoing commitment to student success, academic excellence and community impact.
“This University has a long and proud history of preparing graduates for meaningful and purposeful lives,” said Schol. “Together with students and faculty, I look forward to building on current momentum to pursue new opportunities for innovation, experiential learning, and global engagement. Now, as I assume the presidency of Centenary University, I ask for your prayers for me – as well as our faculty, staff, and students – as we recommit ourselves to advancing the mission of this great University.”
The board added, “We are grateful to Dr. Caldwell for his two years of service and to Bishop Schol for his willingness to serve. We look forward to working together to advance Centenary’s mission and support the success of our students.”
