Caldwell University’s Office of Alumni Affairs held the 39th Annual June Dwyer Castano Veritas Awards Luncheon at Hanover Manor on Sunday, September 20, 2026 to celebrate the professional excellence of alumni.This year’s honorees were thoughtfully selected by the Veritas Committee from a list of remarkable alumni.

Charlene Hamrah ‘69 received the award for Excellence in Corporate Leadership & Philanthropy. Ms. Hamrah spent her career exemplifying excellence and helping pave the way for future generations of women in corporate leadership. For over 20 years, she worked at American International Group (AIG), where she ultimately became Vice President and Director of Investor Relations as one of the few female corporate officers at AIG during that era. Beyond her success in the corporate world, Ms. Hamrah has remained deeply committed to Caldwell University and its mission. She has generously supported the University through philanthropic leadership, service on the Campaign Steering Committee, and active engagement with alumni initiatives, including chairing her 50th class reunion.

Dr. Nicole Christian ‘05/M.A. ‘08 received the award for Excellence in Counseling for Diverse & Marginalized Populations. Dr. Christian is a school counselor with over 14 years of experience and an adjunct professor in graduate counseling programs at Montclair State University and the University of Denver. She also provides counseling services through Ambrosius Counseling and Wellness LLC in Montclair, where she specializes in working with individuals from diverse cultural backgrounds. Dr. Christian is passionate about creating a safe environment for diverse populations to receive mental health care. She has presented at national and international conferences on multicultural counseling, identity development, and counseling diverse populations.

Barbara Moran McFadden ‘82 received the award for Excellence in Service & Educational Impact. Ms. McFadden spent her career going above and beyond for her students. For nearly two decades, she taught English as a Second Language (ESL) in Rockaway Township. In that position, she fostered a welcoming environment for immigrant and refugee students to develop language skills, confidence, and a sense of belonging through engaging, hands-on learning. In
retirement, Ms. McFadden continues to serve those around her, volunteering at a local food pantry. Her dedication to service also extends internationally, supporting educational initiatives for girls in Uganda and students with learning challenges in Nepal. She has also devoted more than a decade to civic engagement through voter outreach and advocacy for social justice.

To learn more about the Veritas Awards and other initiatives by the Office of Alumni Affairs, see their webpage here.