UPDATE: Keli Zinn has officially stepped into her role as Rutgers University’s new Athletic Director, making a splash on her first gameday at SHI Stadium on August 28, 2025. With a mission to revitalize Rutgers athletics, Zinn is determined to turn the long-struggling Scarlet Knights into a competitive powerhouse.
Zinn’s debut was marked by a whirlwind of activity. She engaged with enthusiastic fans, posed for photos, and even sampled New Jersey’s famed breakfast sandwich, known locally as “pork roll.” Her interactions reflect a commitment to building connections within the community. “We love competition here in New Jersey,” she stated, affirming her dedication to fostering a winning culture.
The excitement among fans is palpable. As Joe Verderami, a lifelong supporter, put it, “It’s huge because she’s really making connections with us. No one else has.” Many believe Zinn possesses the unique ability to lead Rutgers to victory, a sentiment echoed by devoted fans like Dave Lepping, who handed her a laminated four-leaf clover, symbolizing hope for the future of Rutgers sports.
Zinn brings a wealth of experience, previously serving as Athletic Director in Baton Rouge, Louisiana, where she was instrumental in driving success across multiple sports. Her track record includes overseeing departments that secured four national championships within three years. Now, she aims to replicate that success at Rutgers by implementing significant changes, particularly in NIL (Name, Image, Likeness) opportunities for athletes.
In her first two months on the job, Zinn held an impressive 337 meetings with coaches, players, and donors, demonstrating her commitment to collaboration and transparency. Her proactive approach has garnered attention, as she works tirelessly to reshape the athletic landscape at Rutgers, which has often been overshadowed by its peers.
Zinn’s journey to this role is nothing short of inspiring. Raised in Petersburg, West Virginia, she overcame substantial odds to achieve her current position, earning a reputation for hard work and resilience. Her father, Joe Cunningham, a former educator who once walked the halls of the White House, expressed pride in her accomplishments, stating, “It is a rags-to-riches story.” Zinn’s salary of $1.35 million as Athletic Director is a testament to her success and ambition.
As she embarks on this new chapter, Zinn has already set ambitious fundraising goals and is committed to enhancing the athletic department’s financial stability. She understands the importance of financial support, especially in the evolving landscape of college sports. During a recent trip to Minnesota, she engaged with donors and laid out plans for several new NIL-centered hires to bolster the program.
Zinn’s influence is already being felt on campus. Her presence at various sporting events, from women’s soccer to volleyball, signals a shift in the athletic department’s culture, one that prioritizes commitment to all sports, not just the marquee programs. Coach Greg Schiano expressed optimism, stating, “She’s committed and she cares,” highlighting the significant impact Zinn is poised to make.
As Zinn continues to navigate the challenges ahead, she remains focused on her ultimate goal: transforming Rutgers into a winning institution. “It’s about the people who show up at the tailgates, who get on the planes to come support us,” she said, emphasizing the emotional connection she feels with the fanbase.
With a clear vision and unwavering determination, Keli Zinn is set to lead Rutgers athletics into a promising new era. Her commitment to excellence, community engagement, and innovative strategies positions her as a transformative figure in college sports. Fans and stakeholders alike are eager to see how her leadership will unfold in the coming months. Stay tuned for developments as Zinn works tirelessly to awaken the “sleeping giant” that is Rutgers athletics.
