Centenary College recently paid tribute to Judge Carl Stewart by selecting him to receive the prestigious 2024 Mary Celeste Reagan Alumni Trailblazer Award. The honor was further elevated by an invitation from Centenary College President Dr. Christopher L. Holloman, who asked Judge Stewart to present the Founders’ Day address during the annual convocation on Wednesday, February 22, 2024, at Brown Memorial Chapel on campus.
Having served as a trustee of Centenary College for 23 years under three different presidents, Judge Stewart’s contributions have left a lasting impact on the institution. His journey began in 1991 under President Donald Webb and continued through the terms of Dr. Kenneth L. Schwab and Dr. B. David Rowe. Noteworthy milestones during this time include being recognized as an “HONORARY ALUMNUS” and being awarded an Honorary Doctor of Laws Degree, as well as his father, Richard G. Stewart, Sr., receiving an Honorary Doctor of Humane Letters during Centenary’s commencement ceremonies in May 2013.
During Judge Stewart’s Founders’ Day address titled “Centenary College: A Haven for Nurturing Great Relationships,” he reflected on his tenure as a trustee and the invaluable relationships he cultivated with students, faculty, staff, and fellow trustees. Drawing upon the historical context of each presidency, he highlighted the unique challenges and opportunities he faced as a “trailblazer” in the Centenary community.
In closing his Address, Judge Stewart emphasized the importance of relationships, quoting, “It is true that relationships do matter. Life is lived out in terms of relationships. The quality of one’s life is directly related to the quality of one’s relationships.” He acknowledged Centenary College’s proud heritage of nurturing strong relationships among all its stakeholders and expressed gratitude for the years of camaraderie and collaboration he experienced there.
Judge Stewart’s enduring commitment to Centenary College and dedication to fostering meaningful relationships serve as a testament to the transformative power of community and connection. As Centenary continues to thrive, his legacy will undoubtedly inspire future generations to uphold the values of unity, growth, and mutual respect within the Centenary family.
