Hackettstown-based Centenary University has solidified its position as a national and statewide leader in providing accessible and transformative education. The university was recently recognized as a Top Performer in Social Mobility in the prestigious U.S. News & World Report 2026 Best Colleges listing. This designation places Centenary among the top institutions in the country for helping graduates, particularly those who are the first in their families to attend college or who face economic challenges, achieve upward social and professional mobility.
In the newly released rankings, Centenary earned the 11th spot among regional universities in the northeast for Social Mobility. It also achieved a strong overall ranking of 98th in the Regional Universities North category. These accolades reflect the university’s deep-seated commitment to student success beyond the classroom.
According to U.S. News & World Report, the social mobility ranking specifically measures how well colleges graduate a large proportion of Pell Grant recipients. These federal grants are primarily awarded to students from families with an adjusted gross income under $50,000 annually. The ranking is a key indicator of an institution’s effectiveness in fostering equitable outcomes for students from underserved backgrounds.
“I am extremely proud of Centenary University’s continuing recognition as an outstanding provider of accessible and affordable education, especially for students facing significant life challenges,” Dale Caldwell, president of Centenary University, said. He noted that while rankings are important, the university’s true success is measured by the accomplishments of its students and alumni. This is exemplified by the success of competitive teams and the well-respected careers of graduates in fields ranging from business and education to criminal justice and veterinary medicine.
Centenary’s commitment to these students is supported by a number of targeted initiatives. The university is a FirstGen Forward Network member, a testament to its dedication to improving the college experience and fostering success for first-generation students. It also offers a robust Educational Opportunity Program (EOP) that provides academic, social, and financial support, which has produced numerous student leaders and successful alumni. The university also offers generous tuition assistance, with 100% of its students receiving some form of aid.
