VCU news

Eugene "Gene" Hunt, Ph.D., a staple in the Virginia Commonwealth University community for more than 50 years, passed away this week. He was 81.

"No one was more passionate about VCU than Gene Hunt," said VCU President Michael Rao, Ph.D. "Even in illness, Gene continued to be a beacon of service and inspiration for his alma mater, his former and current colleagues at VCU and his friends. He was a warm and positive man who was absolutely committed to making good things happen for VCU. We will miss him greatly."

An RPI graduate, Hunt was a part of the foundation of VCU. He served as a professor emeritus in the School of Business from 1968 until 1996. In recognition of his outstanding contributions to the university community, he was awarded the Presidential Medallion in August, one of the highest honors bestowed by VCU. He also served as chairman of the RPI Alumni Council of the VCU Alumni organization.

Hunt and his wife, Honey, were lifelong supporters of the VCU Athletic department, helping fund numerous facilities projects that helped enhance the student-athlete experience for hundreds of Rams. His devotion to the Rams was unmatched as he and Honey were fixtures at nearly every VCU athletic event.

"We are saddened by the loss of Dr. Hunt and send our condolences to Honey and his family. His love of VCU Athletics inspired us every day and we will miss his passion for our program," said Ed McLaughlin, VCU's associate vice president and director of athletics. "Dr. Hunt touched so many different places on the VCU campus and our department benefitted from his incredible support and generosity. We know his spirit will never leave us."

VCU Athletics will recognize Hunt with a moment of silence at the next men’s basketball home game on Jan. 7.

A memorial service for Dr. Hunt will be held on Friday, Jan 2.