Parents turn alumni pride into involvement

James Madison University has been part of the Rennyson family story for decades. Dave (‘91) and Alisa (‘92) met on campus in the early 90s, Dave’s siblings were Dukes too, and the friends they made during those years are still in their lives today. “We’ve had quite the crew come through and enjoy our time here,” Dave said. The Rennyson’s show up for Homecoming, Family Weekend and game days, reunions that only happen when a place continues to feel like home long after graduation. 

Last year, their connection to the university shifted once again when their youngest son chose to enroll in the College of Business. He visited several Virginia schools, but after touring the Learning Complex and seeing the campus for himself, the decision came easily. “When we got to JMU we toured the College of Business, we toured UREC, and he was done,” said Dave. The next chapter of the JMU-Rennyson story was set in motion.

As their son began his Madison Experience, Dave also found a new way to get involved and give back. He joined the CoB Board of Advisors in the fall, motivated by a belief that college education is at an important turning point. “I feel like we’re at a pivotal time where AI is going to completely transform everything, from the university experience to what a first‑year student can achieve,” he said. Serving on the board while their son also attends is “a double benefit to being present in person during the time he’s there.”

Now, with 35 years of business expertise, Dave is helping shape the curriculum, ensuring that students are up to date on new industry standards and ready to hit the ground running after graduation. The more involved he became, he said, the more he found himself thinking about the traits that set JMU students apart in real workplace settings. 

“Pound for pound, I’d rather have a JMU student or alum on my team,” he said, pointing to their grit, personality and readiness. SuccessKPI, the Rennysons’ company, has seen more than a few JMU students come through its doors. 

Alisa sees similar strengths from her side of the hiring process. She leads internship recruitment at SuccessKPI and spends a lot of time coaching and interviewing students. “Good communication skills and being personable go a long way,” she shared. The interns who excel, she added, are the ones who take initiative and aren’t afraid to speak up. “When a student comes in and says they want more work or more direction, instead of silently drowning — that sets them apart.”

Their involvement goes beyond board service and hiring as well. In preparation for JMU’s Giving Day on March 26, Dave and Alisa co-wrote a letter to CoB parents. For them, it’s less about fundraising and more about reinforcing why community support matters. Students thrive, they believe, when they feel connected and encouraged, and with resources and opportunities at their fingertips. 

Impact, for Dave and Alisa, comes from showing up where it matters — as professionals who know what students need to reach success, as parents who believe in the college and as alumni who value the community. JMU shaped their story, and now they’re helping shape the stories of the students who come next.