MUSIC AS A MIRROR, A TEACHER, AND A BRIDGE: CENTENARY UNIVERSITY PRESIDENT DISCUSSES THE POWER OF SONG ON
WORLD COLLEGE RADIO DAY
Photo Caption: John Schol, President of Centenary University and a United Methodist bishop, was interviewed on Centenary’s radio station, WNTI, and shared the music that shaped his life on World College Radio Day on Friday, October 2, 2026.
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HACKETTSTOWN, NJ, Oct. 7, 2026 – On World College Radio Day on Friday, October 2, the airwaves of WNTI became more than a radio broadcast. They became a journey through memories, culture, history, and hope as John Schol, President of Centenary University and a United Methodist bishop, shared the music that has shaped his life and his understanding of people.
Sitting in the studio of Centenary’s own radio station, WNTI, Schol reflected on childhood memories of sneaking a radio under the covers late at night to listen to the legendary Muhammad Ali and Joe Frazier fight, discovering new artists through radio, and sharing the ever-contentious battle for control of the car radio with his brothers and parents. For him, radio was never just entertainment – it was a window to the world.
What made Schol’s conversation with student DJ Jacoby Stewart especially meaningful was the way Schol used and played music to tell the story of the times. Through artists such as Billy Joel, Bruce Springsteen, and Aretha Franklin, Schol reminded listeners that great music is often more than a melody; it is a commentary on history, culture, and the human experience.
When discussing Billy Joel’s “Allentown,” Schol highlighted how the song captured the struggles of working families as factories closed and communities changed throughout his lifetime. He described music as a way of understanding what people are living through and seeing society through the eyes of others.
Schol’s reflections on Bruce Springsteen’s “Born in the U.S.A.” offered a similar perspective. Behind the anthem’s familiar chorus, Schol pointed to a deeper story that the song was written about Vietnam veterans returning home and their sacrifice being met with protest and scorn, although they were just as much citizens and patriots as anyone else. “Music,” Schol suggested, “can challenge us to listen more carefully to the stories behind the headlines.”
As both a university president and a faith leader, Schol also spoke about the power of music can give voice to people seeking dignity, respect, and justice. He reflected on how artists like Aretha Franklin captured the spirit of social change and helped generations better understand the experiences of African Americans and women.
Perhaps the most inspiring theme of the hour was Schol’s reflection of modern pop star Ed Sheeran and opera singer Andrea Bocelli singing “Symphony.” Schol described a symphony as people from different backgrounds, experiences, and traditions bringing their inimitable gifts together to create something beautiful. In a world often divided by race, economics, politics, or nationality, Schol challenged listeners to see themselves as part of that symphony.
The conversation concluded with a faith-filled reflection of the “Goodness of God” sung by Cici Winans. “God’s goodness can be found in each of us, and the importance of crossing boundaries and sharing goodness in the midst of differences is critical,” Schol said. For Schol, music is at its best when it connects hearts, extends borders, and helps people recognize their shared humanity.
What began as a celebration of college radio became something more: a reminder that songs carry stories, stories shape understanding, and understanding can build community. Through music, President and Bishop John Schol demonstrated that history is not only found in textbooks. It can be heard in a melody, felt in a lyric, and experienced whenever people gather together to listen with one another.
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