Among guests at the unveiling on April 24 were the Rowan College of South Jersey Foundation’s executive director, Cody Miller; Ray Rastelli, founder and president of Rastelli Foods and the foundation’s 2025 person of the year; and college President Frederick Keating.
The Rowan College of South Jersey (RCSJ) Foundation set the tone for its future with a sold-out crowd of more than 230 supporters at this year’s Blue & Gold Gala on April 24.
The theme, Charting a Course for Student Success, marked the foundation’s official debut under its new name, with a fresh look and an expanded mission to serve students in Gloucester and Cumberland counties and beyond.
The foundation – which supports both Rowan South Jersey campuses – highlighted its evolving role as a critical partner in helping students overcome barriers to education.
“We’re so excited to share this new chapter with our community,” said Cody Miller, executive director of the foundation. “This updated brand is not just a visual change, it represents a unified commitment to every student we serve, no matter which campus they call home.’
“We’ve had challenges because things change,” foundation board chair Scott Dare noted. “But it’s because of you – our members – that we continue to make a difference.”
Named at the gala as the foundation’s 2025 person of the year was its longtime partner, Ray Rastelli Jr., founder and president of Rastelli Foods Group. His recent investment helped establish the Rastelli Business and Corporate Center on the Gloucester County, a space now helping to launch the next generation of entrepreneurs and business leaders.
Rastelli told the crowd that he graduated from Gloucester County College 50 years ago, before it was Rowan College.
“To be recognized is important,” he advised, “but to be recognized by this community is really what’s important to me. Hearing these students talk about chasing their dreams and staying right here in South Jersey, that’s really awesome. This region is full of talent.
“We need to keep that talent here, and we can do that by lifting each other up and investing in the future.”
Rowan President Dr. Fred Keating echoed the evening’s theme with appreciation for the foundation’s mission.
“These are dreams,” he said, gesturing to the students in attendance. “It’s a good feeling to know that this college is alive and making a difference. And more importantly, our students feel like they belong. That’s a special word, belonging.
“When students feel that, it means they’re connected to what the college is doing, and that’s really the crown jewel of our work.”
Among the students featured was Tyla N., a scholarship recipient and aspiring physician who plans to become a dermatologist or ophthalmologist when she attends Rowan University in the fall.
“It just feels so good to be part of something bigger than yourself,” she observed. “To give back to a community that puts so much into me, it makes me so grateful to be here.”
For more information about the foundation, visit RCSJ.edu/Foundation.
