Although the foundation was a result of the loss of CJ, it would have never existed if Dan Daddio did not introduce the founding president to CJ on afternoon at the Golden Rail in Fall of 1997. From that point it was only a matter of time before CJ’s character and charisma became an inspirational and invaluable element of the Rutgers Cheerleading Team.
Initially CJ’s family and friends gathered to honor CJ a few months after his passing. The first event was held in a backyard of a close friend in south Jersey. The annual event began to grow as more people became aware of the desire to officially honor the life and character of CJ. Although it may have taken several years to get everything in place, the CJ Liegel Foundation was officially established in 2013.
The 1st scholarship was awarded on April 9th, 2014. The CJ Liegel Foundation Scholarship was awarded to Marquis Johnson.
Over the course of the next several years, the scholarship started to attract more attention, and the support grew as well. Within 5 years the scholarship award ceremony increased to two recipients with the intention of expanding it to three. Unfortunately, with the onset of the Covid-19 concern, the scholarship was suspended and ultimately it stopped completely.
Recently, the CJ Liegel Foundation has been renewed. CJ’s friends, who are also foundation board members, reactivated the foundation operations. Recognizing that the foundation’s principles, Honor/Friendship/Loyalty, can still inspire others while keeping the memory of CJ alive.
On August 26, 2024, the CJ Liegel Foundation partnered with the St Johns County Sheriff’s Office to bring CJ’s inspiration to St. Johns Technical High School. The first official action was to provide the funding to have the school’s mascot affixed to the exterior of the school’s deputy’s patrol vehicle. Forever promoting the pride of ‘The Wolves.’
Additionally, the foundation will reinstate the scholarship award. Criteria will be established and announced in the near future.