Hackettstown student overcomes challenges to earn Centenary University’s 2025 Hackettstown Scholar award
HACKETTSTOWN, N.J. (Warren County) — Alexander Clauson has overcome significant challenges to achieve academic excellence and community recognition, earning Centenary University’s 2025 Hackettstown Scholar award, a full, four-year tuition scholarship presented annually to an outstanding Hackettstown High School graduate.
Born prematurely and facing developmental delays, Clauson struggled to keep pace with his peers and endured bullying in middle school. Refusing to give up, he devoted himself to his studies, ultimately achieving honor roll status and induction into the National Honor Society at Hackettstown High School.
This fall, Clauson began his freshman year at Centenary University, where he continues to build on his success. The competitive Hackettstown Partnership Scholarship recognizes students who demonstrate exceptional academic achievement, extracurricular involvement, and community service. Clauson’s selection was announced at the high school’s senior awards ceremony last June.
“That was a life-changing moment for me,” recalled Clauson. “I was over the moon excited, and my parents and two sisters were so proud of me. The scholarship means that I can use the money I would have spent on tuition to help other people.”
A deep commitment to service defines Clauson’s journey. In high school, he participated in numerous community service projects, including several on Centenary’s campus, as a member of the Key Club. He also supported the high school football team, assisting in the weight room and offering encouragement on the sidelines.
Clauson was an active participant in Hackettstown High School Unified Sports, a coed program that brings special education students together with peers for athletic competition. He played soccer and basketball and qualified for the Special Olympics in track and field.
“That was such a special experience,” Clauson said. “The sports program is more about having fun and less about competition. I was proud to be part of it.”
Now at Centenary, Clauson is pursuing his dream of becoming a special education teacher.
“So many of my own teachers and classroom aides were very supportive,” he said. “They had compassion, patience, honesty, and respect. They taught me to put in a really good work ethic. Now, I want to be the kind of person who helps my students, too.”
