Rutgers University RFund

PISCATAWAY, N.J. (June 4, 2025) — On Wednesday evening, Rutgers Athletics and the R Fund celebrated the 10-year anniversary of Scarlet Knight on the Banks. The evening's highlight was the presentation of the 2025 Scarlet Legacy Award, which was given to Gene RC '66 and Aprile Renna in recognition of their lifelong commitment and generous support of Rutgers Athletics, its student-athletes, programs and facilities.

"Gene and Aprile Renna, thank you for your generosity you've shown Rutgers Athletics over the years," said Interim Athletic Director Ryan Pisarri. "You are joining a very exclusive club of recipients of the Scarlet Legacy Award. The Rennas have been supporters of Rutgers Athletics since 1975, and the impact you have made on so many is transformational."

"So much of him and Aprile's life has been dedicated to being selfless and making a positive impact on others, whether it be Rutgers football or children's healthcare, their philanthropic endeavors stretch far and wide," continued Pisarri. "When you see his family, it is clear that he has great care and love for all of them. Those who know Gene speak highly of his appreciation for leadership and accountability. These pillars were instilled at a young age, and reinforced during his time at Rutgers."

Scarlet Knight on the Banks is the R Fund's signature annual celebration, honoring Scarlet Society members, along with Legends' Circle and All-American level donors, for their unwavering support and contributions to the Rutgers student-athlete experience. For the second consecutive year, Rutgers Athletics Hall of Famers, Super Bowl Champions and football letterwinners Devin '10 and Jason '09 McCourty served as emcees, hosting nearly 300 Rutgers Athletics supporters, administrators, coaches, student-athletes, family and friends on C. Vivian String Court at Jersey Mike's Arena.

The evening also featured remarks from three Rutgers student-athlete leaders: Chyna Cornwell '25 (women's basketball), Vanessa Karayiannis '25 (women's rowing) and Jai Patel, a rising senior placekicker from the football program. Their messages shared a common theme – Rutgers is Family; Rutgers is Home. Their heartfelt reflections set the stage for an impassioned speech from Gene Renna, who has been "On the Banks" in one way or another since the early 1960s. He spoke about the history of Rutgers Athletics and how his experience as a student-athlete prepared him for a successful 30-plus-year career as an executive with Mobil.

"You have to learn how to be disappointed and come back," said Renna. "I don't know a better way to put young men or young women out [into the world] that are strong and developed and have guts and courage to help lead their communities. I am honored to have been chosen to receive the Scarlet Legacy Award."

The Rennas' journey with Rutgers began when Gene played football in the 1960s and was named the program's Scholar-Athlete of the Year in 1965. Their first gift to Rutgers came in 1975 and, since then, they have made numerous significant contributions to football, basketball, wrestling and other programs. Their support has included major gifts to the football locker room renovation, and they remain long-time season ticket holders and members of the Provident Bank Stadium Club.

Also speaking during the event were Pisarri, Rutgers University President Jonathan Holloway, R Fund senior leadership team members Elizabeth Boyd and Ben Rodriguez, and Vice President for Athletics Development/Deputy Athletic Director Shawn Tucker. Each speaker addressed the evolving landscape of college athletics and emphasized the critical role R Fund supporters play in the continued success of Rutgers student-athletes – in competition, in the classroom and well beyond their collegiate years.
 

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Celebrate Scarlet Knights and Legacy: Honor Gene & Aprile Renna by Supporting Rutgers Athletics

Gene and Aprile have passionately supported Rutgers University Athletics and its student-athletes for many years. To celebrate their milestone, the Rennas encourage any who would like, to donate to Rutgers Football via this link (or the link above), which holds a special place in their hearts. Your gift to the program provides vital support as they gear up for next season and beyond.