The Celebration of Donor Impact recognized the importance of donor support and its life-changing impact on Rutgers–Newark students.

Nineteen years passed between Jim Rhodes’ freshman year and his graduation from Rutgers–Camden that was his launching pad for a successful career in government and insurance. As an alumnus, he devoted countless hours to volunteering for the university, including overseeing restructuring of the Rutgers University Alumni Association (RUAA) and serving as its inaugural chair. He will be inducted into the Hall of Distinguished Alumni on April 23.

Rutgers alumnus Dan Richer ranks high on a list of the world’s best pizza chefs.

Grateful alumna supports Rutgers accounting students with her money and time.

Four alumni explain why they give regularly and plan to give on Giving Day 2026, which will take place on Friday, April 24.

Gloria A. Bachmann has dedicated her life to helping others and, as a physician, ensuring that women receive optimal obstetrical and gynecological care. Her devotion to Rutgers will be recognized when she is inducted into the Rutgers Hall of Distinguished Alumni on April 23.

A New Jersey native who is off to a stellar start to the 2026 PGA season, Chris Gotterup is the first former Scarlet Knights golfer ever to reach the pinnacle of professional golf—an invitation to play the Masters at the Augusta National Golf Club. He has the support of generations of fellow Rutgers alumni behind him.

Rutgers provided financial aid and scholarships to James F. Dougherty, enabling him to earn two Rutgers degrees and launch a rewarding career as a veterinarian. In the decades since, he has been unwavering in his support of the university through service and philanthropy. He will be inducted into the Hall of Distinguished Alumni on April 23.

Gerhard Kalmus, who immigrated to America as a teen and served in the U.S. Navy, earned his master’s and doctoral degrees in biology from Rutgers and went on to a career as a professor and administrator in North Carolina. In gratitude for guidance he received as a graduate student, he is giving back by providing for a scholarship in his estate plans for Rutgers students in New Brunswick and Camden.