Penn hurdlers race at the Penn Challenge on Mar. 18, 2023.
Credit: Anna VazhaeparambilFew schools in the nation boast as rich of a track and field history as Penn, with traditions like the Penn Relays dating back nearly 150 years. Now, an alumni donation hopes to see that tradition continue well into the future.
On Monday, Penn Athletics announced it had received a $3 million donation from H. Elliott Rogers Jr., C'72, WG'75, and Gail Underwood Rogers, CW'73, WG'75, who have been supporting the Red and Blue’s track and field programs for over 45 years. According to Penn Athletics, the gift will provide funding for many different aspects of the program, including equipment, travel, recruiting, and student-athlete wellness.
“Gail and I firmly believe that Penn's track and field program can grow even stronger with a robust endowment," said Elliott Rogers. "This gift is a continued vote of confidence in our student-athletes under the direction of coach Steve Dolan and in Athletic Director Alanna Shanahan and her leadership team.”
H. Elliott Rogers Jr. currently serves on the Penn Athletics Board of Advisors and the Penn Athletics Track & Field Sports Board. He and Gail have been married for nearly 50 years. Previous gifts from the couple include the installation of a new track at Franklin Field, the Rogers Family Assistant Coach position, and the endowment of the Rogers-O'Hern Lyons Track/Oval inside Franklin Field to recognize Kate O'Hern Lyons, 1986 College graduate.
"With this gift, Penn Athletics now has more resources to bolster the ongoing needs of our track & field and cross country programs. We are so grateful to Elliott and Gail Rogers for inspiring our talented student-athletes to reach their fullest potential," Penn Athletic Director Alanna Shanahan said.
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