Keli Zinn Transitions from Small-Town Star to Rutgers AD
Keli Zinn marked her debut as the new athletic director at Rutgers University on August 28, 2023, by engaging with fans at SHI Stadium. With a welcoming demeanor, she traversed the parking lots, mingling with supporters, taking photos, and promoting a fundraising campaign led by long-time booster Jon Newman. Zinn showcased her enthusiasm for the Scarlet Knights, even trying the state’s iconic breakfast sandwich, which sparked a friendly debate about its name—pork roll versus Taylor Ham.
Zinn arrived at Rutgers after a distinguished career in college athletics, aiming to revitalize a program that has often struggled to find consistent success. Her journey from a small-town sports star to a pivotal figure in collegiate athletics serves as an inspiring narrative. As she connects with the Rutgers community, she is determined to awaken what many have called the “sleeping giant” of college sports.
A New Era for Rutgers Athletics
Zinn’s previous roles have equipped her with the experience necessary to lead Rutgers into a new era. Having worked in various capacities across four states, she has accumulated invaluable insights into the world of college athletics. In her first two months at Rutgers, Zinn conducted an impressive 337 meetings with coaches, players, and donors, illustrating her commitment to building a strong network within the university.
The former chief operating officer at Louisiana State University, Zinn is noted for her significant goals regarding Name, Image, and Likeness (NIL) infrastructure—a key area where Rutgers has lagged behind its competitors. She is focused on establishing a robust NIL strategy to empower student-athletes and enhance the university’s athletic reputation.
Zinn’s predecessor faced challenges that included scandals and controversies, but she is determined to differentiate her administration by fostering transparency and strong relationships with the community. She has emphasized the importance of engagement, stating, “We don’t have time to waste time.”
From Humble Beginnings to Leadership
Zinn’s journey began in Petersburg, West Virginia, where she excelled as a student-athlete. Her father, Joe Cunningham, instilled the values of hard work and dedication, which propelled her into various leadership roles throughout her academic career. Recognized as a model student, Zinn earned scholarships to attend West Virginia University, where she initially pursued tennis before shifting her focus to sports management.
Her career trajectory took a significant turn when she was recruited by Oliver Luck, the athletic director at West Virginia, who recognized her talent in compliance. As she moved up the ranks, Zinn became the first woman to lead the school’s athletic department, demonstrating her capabilities as a leader.
During her tenure at LSU, she played a crucial role in the department’s success, contributing to the acquisition of four national championships across three sports. This track record has bolstered her reputation and positioned her as a strong candidate for the athletic director role at Rutgers.
As Zinn embraces her responsibilities, she is committed to transforming Rutgers into a competitive force in college sports. Her actions have already begun to resonate within the athletic department. Coaches and players alike have expressed excitement about her leadership style and vision for the future.
Zinn’s ambitious plans include significant fundraising initiatives aimed at enhancing the athletic program. She is actively engaging with donors and fostering relationships that will support the department’s growth. Her proactive approach signifies a departure from the reactive strategies of previous administrations, aiming to create a culture of success.
Zinn’s story of resilience and determination reflects her desire to give back to the community that shaped her. As she strives to elevate Rutgers athletics, she remains anchored by the support of her family and the local community, all while navigating the challenges of modern collegiate sports.
With a laminated four-leaf clover as a symbol of hope gifted to her by a devoted fan, Zinn is ready to lead Rutgers into a new chapter, one defined by ambition, innovation, and a commitment to excellence in college athletics.
