Four Centenary Students to Present Research at ICUNJ Symposium

HACKETTSTOWN, NJ, March 17, 2025—Four Centenary University students have been selected to present their independent research at the Undergraduate Research Symposium sponsored by the Independent Colleges and Universities of New Jersey, an organization representing the state’s 13 nonprofit, private institutions of higher education. The event will be held on April 1 at Bell Works in Holmdel.

The annual symposium challenges students to explore science and technology through hands-on, inquiry-based learning. Working closely with leading faculty on their campuses, students test innovative concepts, prepare poster presentations, and defend their results to judges. Student research is funded through sponsorships and ICUNJ research-focused scholarships.

The following Centenary students are working under the direction of Assistant Professor of Chemistry Mourad Frites, Ph.D., to prepare for the ICUNJ Undergraduate Research Symposium:

• Michael Damptey of Irvington, Water Quality from Lake Musconetcong and Lake Hopatcong
• Nic Radovanic of Long Valley and Tracy Snover of Phillipsburg, A study of phosphorous consumption by fresh water mussels; a solution to harmful algae blooms
• Joshua Scialom of Westfield, Comparative Analysis of Solar Panel Performance: Solar Panel Mounted on Tracker versus Stationary Mounting System

At Centenary University, the School of Natural, Health, Social, and Behavioral Sciences offers small class sizes and personal attention from faculty to encourage students to participate in opportunities like undergraduate research, professional internships, and other initiatives to prepare for graduate school and careers. “Centenary students are provided with unique opportunities for hands-on learning beginning in their first year of college,” said Robert Battistini, Ph.D., vice president for academic affairs. “At large universities, research is often reserved for graduate students. Here at Centenary, undergraduates gain these experiences early on, ensuring strong resumes that open doors to acceptance at competitive graduate and veterinary schools, as well as leading corporations.”

ABOUT CENTENARY UNIVERSITY

Centenary University offers extraordinary learning opportunities that empower students to develop intellectually, emotionally, and interculturally—keys to career and personal success. Under the leadership of President Dale Caldwell, Ed.D., the University aspires to advance its reputation as a world class institution offering innovative programs, including the world’s first Master of Arts in Happiness Studies, to lift the future for our students and local communities.