A resident of Rockaway, Dr. Floether was recognized for her exceptional professional practice and advocacy, as well as exemplifying the spirit of the organization’s mission and values.

HACKETTSTOWN, NJ, March 23, 2026—Centenary University Professor of Psychology Christine Floether, Ph.D., was recognized as the 2026 S.H.I.N.E. Educator of the Year by Child & Family Resources, a Morris County nonprofit that serves low-income families through Morris County’s Child Care Resource and Referral Agency. A resident of Rockaway, NJ, Dr. Floether was named the Higher Education Awardee at the organization’s S.H.I.N.E. Gala on March 19. 

            The S.H.I.N.E. (Serves, Helps, Inspires, Nurtures, and Excels) award was created to honor educators who work long hours, inspire and motivate their students, and make personal sacrifices to ensure that every child has the opportunity to succeed. “Through this award, we proudly celebrate these educators as essential partners in strengthening families and supporting the health development of children,” said Kayla Gieger, associate director of Child & Family Resources. “The evening was a meaningful celebration filled with community connection, inspiration, and recognition of the vital role educators play in Morris County.”

            In addition to her role as professor of psychology at Centenary, Dr. Floether is coordinator of the University’s undergraduate program in psychology. A 1987 graduate of Centenary, she earned a Master of Arts in Psychology from Fairleigh Dickinson University and a doctorate from Capella University. Dr. Floether has also served as a member of the Centenary University President’s Advisory Council, a role that recognizes her deep commitment to the University and its students. 

“I am deeply honored to receive this recognition from an organization that does so much to uplift children and young adults throughout Morris County,” Dr. Floether said. “Child & Family Resources embodies the belief that when we invest in families and education, we strengthen entire communities, and I am grateful to share their commitment.” 

ABOUT CENTENARY UNIVERSITY

Centenary University was founded in 1867 by United Methodists and offers extraordinary learning opportunities that empower students to develop intellectually, emotionally, and interculturally—keys to career and personal success. The University aspires to advance its reputation as a world class institution offering innovative programs, including the world’s first Ph.D. in Happiness Studies and first Master of Arts in Happiness Studies, to lift the future for our students and local communities.