Article: Steve Tichenor
Photos: Sean Ward
LeGrand Knight, a fundraiser to benefit the Christopher & Dana Reeve foundation hosted by Eric LeGrand, returned to the Rutgers Club Thursday night, joined by special guests: New Rutgers Athletic Director Keli Zinn, and Rutgers football alumni Mike Teel and Kevin Malast.
Zinn discussed the evolving landscape of collegiate athletics in the Name, Image, and Likeness (NIL) era and outlined current fundraising initiatives that aim to keep Rutgers competitive. She noted that one major campaign is already 77% funded, a critical step toward bringing Rutgers closer to the middle of the pack in the Big Ten.
Teel, Malast and LeGrand reflected on the pivotal years that sparked the program’s resurgence during Greg Schiano’s first tenure as head coach, sharing stories from the era that helped redefine Rutgers football.
The bar featured LeGrand Bourbon, which Eric launched with Brian Axelrod in 2023.
The evening concluded with remarks from Eric LeGrand, who spoke about ongoing advancements in research and support for individuals living with paralysis. He emphasized the continued importance of fundraising through the Christopher & Dana Reeve Foundation, an effort he remains deeply committed to.