FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE Contact: Cara Daniello
THURSDAY, AUGUST 27, 2026 Director of Communications and Public Relations
908.852.1400 x 2010
Cara.Daniello@CentenaryUniversity.edu
CENTENARY UNIVERSITY FRESHMAN RECEIVES HILL SCHOLARSHIP,
EARNS FULL RIDE FOR HIGHER EDUCATION

Photo Caption: Centenary University awarded this year’s Grace Y. Bissett and Louise Monez Hill Scholarship to Charlotte Sampson of Bethlehem, PA, at move-in day on August 21, 2026, in Hackettstown, NJ. Pictured (L to R) are: Devon Vialva, Dean of Campus Life, and Director, Educational Opportunity Program, Centenary University; John R. Schol, D.Min., President of Centenary University; Charlotte Sampson, Student, Centenary University; Themar Sampson; John Garriques, Head Wrestling Coach, Centenary University; and Cy, Centenary University Mascot.
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HACKETTSTOWN, NJ, AUG. 27, 2026—Centenary University awarded this year’s Grace Y. Bissett and Louise Monez Hill Scholarship to Charlotte Sampson of Bethlehem, Pennsylvania. The prestigious four-year scholarship covers the full cost of attendance at Centenary—including tuition and fees, room and board, books, transportation, travel, and miscellaneous expenses—to a student focused on a career that strengthens inclusion and fairness in everyday life.
The scholarship fund was established through an estate gift from Centenary University alumna Louise M. Hill, class of 1940, in memory of her aunt, Grace Y. Bissett, who made her education possible.
“Beyond recognizing strong academic performance, the scholarship considers students who demonstrate leadership, thoughtful engagement with issues surrounding race and human relations, and the potential to make a meaningful contribution to the Centenary community,” said Devon Vialva, Dean of Campus Life, and Director, Educational Opportunity Program, Centenary University.
John R. Schol, D.Min., President of Centenary University, surprised Sampson with the news she won the scholarship upon her arrival at move-in day on Friday, August 21, 2026, in Hackettstown, NJ. Sampson and her mother were overwhelmed with happiness, excitement, and relief.
“Charlotte’s accomplishments, character, and aspirations make her an outstanding recipient of the Grace Y. Bissett and Louise Monez Hill Scholarship,” Schol said. “Her commitment to using storytelling as a tool for understanding and connection reflects the values at the heart of this award. We are delighted to welcome her to Centenary University and look forward to seeing the difference she will make as a student, leader, and future communications professional.”
“The way this was presented was mind-blowing,” said Thamar Samspon, Charlotte’s mother. “I am so excited for Charlotte to start this chapter of her life.”
Sampson is the fifth student to receive this scholarship at Centenary University. She plans to earn her Bachelor of Arts in Communication: Radio/TV/Film and minor in Psychology and Social Media Marketing. Sampson considers herself a storyteller, noting that, “Stories have the power to shape perceptions, broaden understanding, and encourage people to see the world through someone else’s perspective.” She hopes “to create thoughtful and authentic work that inspires reflection, encourages meaningful conversations, and helps people better understand one another.”

Photo Caption: Centenary University awarded this year’s Grace Y. Bissett and Louise Monez Hill Scholarship to Charlotte Sampson (second from left) of Bethlehem, PA, at move-in day on August 21, 2026, in Hackettstown, NJ. Pictured (L to R) are: John R. Schol, D.Min., President of Centenary University; Charlotte Sampson, Student, Centenary University; Themar Sampson; Cy, Centenary University Mascot; and John Garriques, Head Wrestling Coach, Centenary University.
Sampson is a student-athlete who will participate on the wrestling and softball teams in addition to her rigorous academics. Wrestling coaches John Garriques and Robert Melise were also present to congratulate Sampson when she received the Hill Scholarship.
“In a world where division often feels easier than understanding, I want to create work that promotes empathy, respect, and connection,” Sampson said.
ABOUT CENTENARY UNIVERSITY
Founded in 1867 by the United Methodist Church, Centenary University offers a wide range of undergraduate and graduate programs grounded in a strong liberal arts foundation and career-focused learning. Located in Hackettstown, New Jersey, with an equestrian center in Washington Township, Centenary provides students with hands-on, personalized educational experiences that prepare them for success in a global and evolving workforce. Guided by its commitment to student success, university vitality, and world engagement, Centenary empowers students to lead lives of purpose, impact, and lifelong achievement. For more information, visit centenaryuniversity.edu.
Media Contact: Cara Daniello
Director of Communications and Public Relations
908-852-1400 ext. 2010
Cara.Daniello@CentenaryUniversity.edu
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