Centenary University has awarded this year’s Grace Y. Bissett and Louise Monez Hill Scholarship to freshman Charlotte Sampson of Bethlehem, Pennsylvania, giving her a full ride through four years at the Hackettstown campus.
The award covers the entire cost of attendance, including tuition and fees, room and board, books, transportation, travel, and miscellaneous education expenses. Centenary gives it to one student a year who plans a career devoted to improving relationships between the races.
University President John R. Schol, D.Min., surprised Sampson with the news on move in day, Friday, August 21, 2026. She is the fifth student to receive the scholarship.
“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.”
Sampson plans to earn a Bachelor of Arts in Communication with a Radio, TV and Film focus, plus a minor in Psychology and Social Media Marketing. She is also a student athlete who will compete on the wrestling and softball teams.
“In a world where division often feels easier than understanding, I want to create work that promotes empathy, respect, and connection,” Sampson said.
The fund behind the award was created through an estate gift from Centenary alumna Louise M. Hill, class of 1940, in memory of her aunt, Grace Y. Bissett, who helped make Hill’s own education possible.
Centenary University was founded in 1867 and is based in Hackettstown, with its equestrian center in Washington Township in Morris County. Application details and criteria are posted on the university’s Hill Scholarship page.
Denville Now also follows education across Morris County, including Morris County School of Technology’s Career Pathways Night.
