Centenary University in Hackettstown plans to hold its 19^th Annual Scholarship Gala from 5:30 p.m. to 9 p.m. on Thur., June 23,  at the David and Carol Lackland Center.  This year’s theme is “Celebrating the Lewthwaite Legacy,” in honor of Centenary’s 12^th President, Dr. Barbara-Jayne Lewthwaite. Guests will enjoy a cocktail reception, dinner, dancing, and an awards presentation, as well as live and silent auctions.

This year, more than $15 million from the institution’s annual budget was awarded in financial aid to full-time undergraduate students.  Since its inception, the Scholarship Gala has raised more than $2.7 million for the Centenary Scholarship Fund.

This year’s Gold Dome Award recipient is Lewthwaite. This Award is bestowed upon individuals or organizations that advance the mission of the institution and are involved in the betterment of the community.

“This year it was quite evident that the awardee would be Dr. Lewthwaite,” says John Carno, vice president for College Relations at Centenary.  “She has tirelessly served in various capacities at this institution and has demonstrated a strong commitment to Centenary and the community-at-large.  It has been a pleasure working with her, and I look forward to continuing to with her in her new capacity as both Professor of Business and President Emeritus.”

Lewthwaite has served as the university’s 12^th president since May 15, 2009, after serving as acting president.  She is the second woman and second former faculty member to serve as president of Centenary. Since assuming the role of president, she utilized her background in academic affairs to advance the university’s mission of providing a liberal arts education with a career focus and a special emphasis on community service.

Under her leadership, she increased philanthropic support for the university.  Many new programs were established during her tenure such as a degree in environmental science, a pre-veterinary program, and a master’s degree in reading and healthcare administration.

During her tenure, all of the Science laboratories were transformed with new laboratories, technology, fittings and lighting.  Centenary also opened a Health and Wellness Center, and created an Environmental Science Center at the Charles O. Hayford Fish Hatchery in conjunction with the New Jersey Department of Environmental Protection. The center provides students with hands-on experience in utilizing collection and analysis tools.

Lewthwaite, who began her career at Centenary in 1985, also served as the chief academic officer at Centenary, playing a vital part in in the University’s long-term strategic planning.

“Funds generated by the Scholarship Gala have enabled hundreds of students to afford a Centenary education and allow them to pursue their goals,” says Lewthwaite.  “In addition, I am so honored that I was selected to receive the Gold Dome Award this year.”

Anyone interested in supporting the Scholarship Gala or attending the event,  call (908) 852-1400, ext. 2336, or e-mail russelle01@centenarycollege.edu for more information. Information is also available at www.centenarycollege.edu/gala.