U.S. Representative Mikie Sherrill has named Dale Caldwell, president of Centenary University and a longtime public servant, as her running mate for lieutenant governor in this year’s New Jersey gubernatorial election.
Caldwell, 65, has led Centenary University in Hackettstown since 2023, becoming the institution’s first Black president. He is also the pastor of Covenant United Methodist Church in Plainfield and brings decades of experience in education, government, and community leadership.
Sherrill officially announced the selection on Friday, July 25th, emphasizing their shared values and vision for the state. She pointed to Caldwell’s legacy of service, noting that he “has always been a voice for the voiceless” and brings extensive experience across sectors, including higher education, government, and nonprofit leadership.
The Democratic nominee’s decision followed a final shortlist that included former Assistant Attorney General Shavar Jeffries and Samuel Delgado, Vice Chair of the New Jersey Cannabis Regulatory Commission. Caldwell’s broad public service record and cross-sector leadership appeared to make him a standout choice.
Caldwell served on the New Brunswick Board of Education for 26 years, including six years as board president. He also held leadership roles in charter schools in Asbury Park and Trenton and was named New Jersey’s Charter School Administrator of the Year in 2015. His resume includes positions at Deloitte Consulting and the New Jersey Department of Community Affairs, where he was appointed Assistant Commissioner in 2002 and later became Deputy Commissioner.
In addition to his education and government work, Caldwell made history in 2006 as the first Black president and CEO of the United States Tennis Association Eastern Section. He also helped launch the Black Tennis Hall of Fame and has promoted adaptive tennis programs.
Caldwell described their campaign as offering “a different kind of leadership that sees possibilities,” contrasting it with conventional approaches. He stated that their administration would focus on lowering costs and expanding opportunities for families across New Jersey.
