Teaching by Example

Califon, N.J., resident who graduated in first class of doctoral students from Centenary
University featured in magazine cover story.

HACKETTSTOWN, N.J., Aug. 23, 2019—As superintendent of schools in Clinton Township, N.J.,
Michele Cone, Ed.D., knows better than most that learning never ends. With master’s and
doctoral degrees in educational leadership from Centenary University, she was perfectly
positioned to advance her career when officials in her school district were searching for a new
superintendent last year.

Dr. Cone had earned her master’s degree from Centenary in 2013, and was already
enrolled in the University’s doctoral program through the School of Professional Studies when
school officials tapped her for the superintendent’s position. She received her Ed.D. from
Centenary in May as a member of the University’s first graduating class of doctoral students. “I
was diving into this new and exciting position,” Dr. Cone recalled. “Needless to say, I felt a bit
trepidatious leaping back into academics as a student.”

A mother of three from Califon, N.J., Dr. Cone is one of seven students featured in the
cover story of the most recent issue of the Centenarian, the University’s alumni magazine.
Called “The Future U,” the story spotlights outstanding students and the futures they envision
as a result of earning a Centenary University degree. The story is part of a wider campaign of
the same name, which highlights Centenary’s career-focused educational approach.

At Centenary’s School of Professional Studies, working adults have the opportunity to
earn undergraduate, graduate, and certificate programs specifically designed for adult learners at the School’s campuses in Parsippany and Edison. Flexible scheduling includes in-class, online,
and blended course options.

Today, Dr. Cone advises others not to hesitate when considering an advanced degree.
The seasoned educator said, “If you’re waiting for the right time, you’ll be waiting forever. Trust
yourself and jump in. Your degree will open up numerous possibilities.”

Read more about Centenary’s Future U students in the Centenarian:
http://bit.ly/CentenarianSpring19

ABOUT CENTENARY UNIVERSITY
Founded in 1867 by the Newark Conference of the United Methodist Church, Centenary
University’s academic program integrates a solid liberal arts foundation with a strong career
orientation. This mix provides an educational experience that prepares students to succeed in
the increasingly global and interdependent world. The University’s main campus is located in
Hackettstown, N.J., with its equestrian facility in Washington Township. The Centenary
University School of Professional Studies offers degree programs at two locations, Parsippany
and Edison, as well as online and at corporate sites throughout New Jersey.