Centenary University names Michael Iris vice president for advancement and communications
HACKETTSTOWN, N.J. (Warren County) — Centenary University has appointed Michael Iris as vice president for advancement and communications. The appointment took effect Feb. 16, university officials announced.
University President John R. Schol said Iris, a 2007 Centenary graduate and resident of Flanders, will report directly to the president in his new role.
“Centenary University is fortunate to attract Dr. Michael Iris, whose experience and accomplishments will further student success, university vitality, and world engagement,” Schol said. “His passion for student success and ability to connect with people make him an asset to our mission.”
Iris brings 14 years of higher education experience, including roles in development, alumni relations and communications at Berkeley College. He has also served as an adjunct instructor at Centenary, teaching marketing, social media and graphic design.
In his new position, Iris said he plans to strengthen the university’s communications, fundraising and relationships with alumni and community partners.
“My top priority is to more deeply connect with donors, alumni, and community partners,” Dr. Iris said. “Alumni are among Centenary’s greatest ambassadors, and strengthening those relationships along with donors and community partners will be central to our advancement efforts. I also plan to deepen and expand our partnerships with local and regional business leaders, community organizations, and external stakeholders. By strengthening these relationships, we can elevate Centenary’s visibility, enhance experiential opportunities for students, and broaden philanthropic support.”
Iris was recognized with the Centenary University Distinguished Alumni Award in 2022. In 2024, he was named to the NJBIZ Forty Under 40 list, which honors professionals who are “shaping the economic future of New Jersey.”
He earned a Bachelor of Science in marketing and management from Centenary University, a Master of Science in graphic communications and technology from Kean University, and a Doctor of Higher Education Leadership from Saint Elizabeth University.
As he began his new role, Iris reflected on his longstanding connection to the university.
“My longstanding relationship with Centenary provides me with strong institutional knowledge, meaningful connections across campus, and a deep understanding of the university’s culture and values. I understand the student experience firsthand, and I appreciate the dedication of our faculty, staff, alumni, and partners. That perspective allows me to approach this role not only strategically, but personally. I am honored to return in this capacity and help lead the university into its next chapter of growth and impact.”
