Centenary University Appoints New President

Last semester, former President Dale Caldwell was tapped to serve as lieutenant governor of New Jersey under newly elected Governor Mikie Sherrill and left the University in December. In November, the University's Board of Trustees appointed Bishop John Schol as the 16th president of the University to succeed Caldwell.

“Born and raised in a working-class family in Philadelphia, Bishop Schol was consecrated as a bishop in 2004 after serving 25 years as a pastor, community developer, and denominational executive. Eight years later, he was assigned to lead the United Methodists in Greater New Jersey, a role he held until his retirement in 2024. After his retirement, Bishop Schol was called to serve as the interim lead bishop of Nigeria to reorganize The United Methodist Church in Nigeria after the former bishop resigned.”

President Schol gave an interview to The Cyclone Chronicle to discuss his vision and plans for the University on Thursday, March 5. 

Why did you choose to accept an appointment as President of the University at this point in time?

Throughout my life, I’ve been blessed to serve in a variety of meaningful leadership roles: pastoring congregations, leading nonprofit community organizations, leading urban ministry for the United Methodist Church across the country and serving for 20 years as a bishop in The United Methodist Church. I’ve also had the privilege of serving on the boards of six universities, including one in Tanzania and Centenary.

Across all these experiences, one truth has remained constant: leadership matters, and shaping the lives of young people shapes the future of our world. When the opportunity arose to serve as President of Centenary University, it felt like a moment when everything I had learned across my life had converged.

Centenary is a remarkable place filled with students who are determined, resilient, and committed to making a difference. I feel deeply honored to be part of a community like this. In many ways, I am receiving far more than I am giving, and I am profoundly grateful for the opportunity.

What is your connection to Centenary?

My connection to Centenary began through service. As a United Methodist bishop, I was invited to join the University’s board, and I gladly accepted. Centenary was founded by The United Methodist Church in 1867, and stepping into the role as president felt like continuing that historic relationship.

Over time, I developed both admiration and affection for the University; its mission, its people, and its spirit. My service on the board allowed me to see firsthand the heart of Centenary, and that experience ultimately led me to say “yes” to serving as its President.

What is your vision for the University?

My vision begins with the people who make Centenary what it is, our students, alumni, faculty, and staff. They inspire me every day. Everyone I meet shares a common desire: for Centenary not just to survive, but to thrive and to empower future generations.

I envision a university where curiosity is nurtured, excellence is expected, and service to others is embraced as a core value. I want Centenary to continue preparing students who grow in wisdom, character, and leadership. Graduates who step confidently into their careers and into the world. 

Ultimately, my vision is to strengthen a Centenary that launches students into lives of purpose, fulfillment, and success. I see our students flourishing in everything they do.

What challenges do you see for Centenary going forward, and how do you plan to address them?

Higher education as a whole is facing significant change. There are fewer college‑age students, and resources everywhere are tightening. Centenary is not alone in navigating this shifting landscape.

Yet, what sets us apart is the dedication of our faculty, staff, and alumni who believe deeply in our mission and our students. Our challenge is clear: to do more with less, while still providing an exceptional student experience.

Our path forward includes developing signature academic programs, such as the business program; strengthening athletics and the arts; and creating a campus environment where students not only learn but truly thrive. By focusing on excellence in our service to students and the world we can attract students who are excited to be part of Centenary’s future.

How would you describe your leadership philosophy or style?

I believe strongly that every person has the potential to lead. My role is to encourage, support, and challenge others to grow into leaders who make a difference, here at Centenary and in the wider world.

I lead collaboratively because I value the wisdom and experience others bring. I also consider myself a visionary leader: someone who sees possibility and invites others to imagine what could be.

At my core, I strive to lead with humility, hope, and a deep commitment to helping others succeed.

How will your years as a pastor, community leader, bishop, and your work reorganizing The United Methodist Church of Nigeria guide your work at Centenary University?

Those experiences taught me to trust—trust others, trust myself, and trust that new possibilities can emerge even in difficult circumstances.

In Nigeria, I witnessed immense challenges and profound transformation. With faith, perseverance, and a belief in the people, the church moved from division to reconciliation and grew from 500 congregations to more than 800 in just two years. From that experience, I learned that nothing is impossible. Hard work, forgiveness, and determination can overcome obstacles that once seemed immovable.

These lessons guide me daily at Centenary. I believe in the strength of this community and in our shared ability to overcome challenges and create a brighter future.

What advice do you have for graduating seniors and students preparing for the future or considering advanced degrees?

Never stop being curious. Curiosity keeps life vibrant and keeps you growing. Embrace challenges. They are often the moments where leadership and character are shaped most deeply.

Stay open to possibilities. Opportunities frequently appear where we least expect them. And when choosing a path, prioritize joy, meaning, and fulfillment over titles or money. Life unfolds along the way, not at the end of the journey.

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As you can tell from his emails to the Centenary community, President Schol feels fortunate, honored, and proud to be a part of Centenary.