Centenary University CARE Team

The Centenary University CARE (Coordination, Assessment, Response, and Education) Team provides support and intervention for students experiencing difficulties that may impact their academic or social well-being within the university community. We recognize that the college experience can be overwhelming, with many students juggling academic responsibilities, social expectations, and personal struggles.

Our goal is to identify areas of concern early on and develop targeted strategies to help students succeed. By carefully reviewing each individual situation, we work collaboratively to create a tailored action plan that addresses the student’s specific needs and promotes a successful return to their academic and social pursuits.

The CARE Team is a working group comprised of representatives from multiple offices and departments across campus. The CARE Team meets on a weekly basis to conduct risk assessments and discuss non-emergent behavioral concerns that have been brought to its attention by members of the University and local communities.

Student of Concern

A student of concern is defined as an individual who exhibits behaviors that may compromise their ability to thrive in the university community, posing a potential risk to their academic success and overall well-being. In recognition of the importance of fostering a supportive and inclusive learning environment, Centenary University has established a CARE Team to proactively address the needs of students who may be struggling, providing them with the necessary support and resources to excel in their collegiate experience.

Some concerning student behavior could include:

Please note this list is not exhaustive and we encourage you to submit a referral if you have concerns not mentioned in the examples below. 

• Disruptive behaviors in the classroom or in the residence halls
• Uncharacteristic poor academic performance
• Frequently missing class without communication
• Emotionally erratic behavior
• Clear intent to self-harm or others
• Verbal threats, showing weapons, physical fights
• Suicidality, including ideation, known attempts or threats
• Homesickness, loneliness, difficulty adjusting to college life
• Disturbing content in academic work
• Vague or direct behaviors that create concern
• Alcohol or drug use concerns
• Changes in physical appearance or hygiene
• Social isolation
• Consistent roommate difficulties and/or withdrawing from friends
• Major life events including financial or housing instability, lack of support system, and loss of a loved one
  

Please report any concerning behavior as soon as possible by submitting a Student of Concern Referral. You may also contact the CARE Team by emailing careteam@centenaryuniversity.edu

The CARE Team cannot address emergencies in real time, or instances where an immediate threat is posed. In cases of emergencies or threats that require immediate action, please contact Public Safety at (908) 852-1400 ext. 0 or dial 911.

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Homesickness 

Many students, particularly in their first year of college, may struggle with feelings of homesickness. This is a common challenge, and Centenary University offers numerous resources to assist students in managing these feelings. Resident assistants, first-year leaders, faculty members, staff, and Campus Life are all ready to support students during this transitional period. If students are experiencing anxiety or depression, we encourage them to schedule an appointment with the Counseling Center. First year students can also make an appointment with Diana Alzate, Director of First Year Experience. 

The Counseling Center – 908-852-1400 ext 2125 – Your health and wellness hub

First Year Experience – 908-852-1400 ext 2376 –First Year Experience for Centenary Freshman

Residence Life – 908-852-1400 ext 3950 – Residence Halls–Campus Housing at Centenary

Campus Life –  908-852-1400 x 2105

Students experiencing homesickness are encouraged to become active in college life by joining on-campus groups and organizations. To begin this process, students can contact Jamie Weingarten, Director of Student Activities (908-852-1400 ext 3000) or they can visit the Campus Life Suite located in the Seay Building.

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Domestic Violence and Sexual Assault Survivors 

Centenary University takes the safety and security of all students very seriously. Students who have experienced domestic violence or sexual assault may need additional support and resources. If you, or someone who know, is a survivor of domestic or sexual violence, please contact Simpdy Merelan, Survivor Support and Violence Prevention Program Director at 908-852-1400 ext 2833 or via email at Simpdy.merelan@centenaryuniversity.edu

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Emergencies 

The Centenary University CARE Team cannot respond to emergencies. If you believe a student is in immediate danger, or have knowledge of an imminent safety concern, please contact Security at (908) 852-1400 ext. 0 or dial 911.

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Hardship Students  

Centenary University recognizes that students may experience personal hardships including housing and/or food insecurities, childcare challenges and employment difficulties. These students can seek support and resources from our Campus Life Case Manager by emailing laura.wasilewski@centenaryuniversity.edu. Students, staff and faculty are also encouraged to visit our Cyclones in Need resource page: centenaryuniversity.edu/student-services/resources-for-cyclones-in-need

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CARE Team Committee

Kerry Mullins – Vice President for Campus Life and Dean of Students – 908-852-1400 ext 2105 – Kerry.mullins@centenaryuniversity.edu

Kathleen Greco- Dean of Student Success – 908-852-1400 ext 2249 – kathleen.greco@centenaryuniversity.edu

Theresa Lord-Stout, RN, MSN, APN-C – Executive Director of Wellness – 908-852-1400 ext 2206 – Theresa.lord-stout@centenaryuniversity.edu

Mikolaya Nynka, LPC – Director of Counseling Center – 908-852-1400 ext 2128 – Mikolaya.nynka@centenaryuniversity.edu

Jessica Rosano – Director of Residence Life and Community Standards – 908-852-1400 ext 3950 – Jessica.rosano@centenaryuniversity.edu

Diana Alzate – Director of First Year Experience – 908-852-1400 ext 2376 – diana.alzate@centenaryuniversity.edu

Laura Foster-Wasilewski – Campus Life Case Manager – 908-852-1400 ext 2584 – laura.wasilewski@centenaryuniversity.edu

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We CU Thriving Here

The Centenary University Wellness Center for Counseling and Health is your go-to spot for all things health-related.  Our goal is to help you thrive both personally and academically.

Wishing you good health and success.

Theresa A. Lord-Stout, RN, MSN, APN-C
Executive Director
Wellness Center for Counseling and Health

Theresa.Lord-Stout@centenaryuniversity.edu