The Washington Rowing Stewards

The University of Washington Rowing Stewards were established under Hiram Conibear in 1916 to assist the University in the oversight of the program.  Specifically for Conibear, his overriding concerns were twofold:  raising money to cover his expanding program, and building an outside support group of alumni to protect it.  Little could he have known at the time how crucial this was.  His tragic death the following year, coupled by the effects of WWI and a UW administration less than friendly to athletics on campus, put the program in severe jeopardy.  Only by the efforts of the newly created Stewards did rowing survive at Washington.  More on this era can be found here - Washington Rowing History - Men: 1910's, a fascinating time in the history of the sport.

Over the years, the Stewards have evolved into an organization of men and women dedicated to the success of the program both on and off the water. Today, any friend or alum who gives back to the program annually is considered a Steward.  A meeting is held each winter where all Rowing Stewards come together to discuss the priorities of the program and the goals for the coming year.

The Board of Rowing Stewards consists of a core group of men and women, representing varying generations and perspectives, that meet throughout the year.  The Board continues to assist the coaches and University in guiding endowment funds to maximize the opportunities presented by these gifts, and plays a principal role in planning for the future of the program.  An Executive Committee, formed of Stewards specifically responsible for a designated need, are consistently in contact throughout the year to coordinate the alumni/friends/parents program.