ROW Hires New Executive Director

[Press Release Issued Sept. 3] Recovery on Water (ROW) recently announced that Maggie Dwyer, former associate head coach for the women’s rowing team at Jacksonville University, has joined the organization as executive director, effective August 26.

Dwyer holds a Master of Science in Organizational Leadership, and her professional history includes more than four years coaching Division 1 women’s rowing. During her tenure at Jacksonville University, she also spearheaded the planning and execution of campus-wide events and fundraising initiatives, and she implemented a comprehensive professional development series for student-athletes; these experiences were key considerations in her hiring at ROW, where member enrichment opportunities and event-generated revenue are both heavily emphasized.

“We sought very specific characteristics and capabilities in our executive director candidates, and our board is excited about Maggie’s knowledge of rowing, her experience inspiring and leading athletes, and her event and fundraising track record,” said David Skelding, ROW board chair. “But at the end of the day, our excitement is based primarily on the sort of person Maggie is and on her deep commitment to using [rowing] to improve the lives of more women.”

Participation in Recovery on Water programs is exclusive to women who have been diagnosed with breast cancer, and current programs are rooted in traditional sweep rowing. In March 2020, following nationwide quarantine shutdowns, the organization temporarily pivoted all of its rowing and fitness programs to a virtual-only landscape, and in August it announced the beta launch of a new VirtuROW program that will deliver remote content to a national audience. Dwyer’s role will be key in securing ongoing funding for these programs.

“Rowing has a truly unique effect on people that I have seen time and time again, and the ROW community has harnessed that power in an incredibly unique way,” said Dwyer. “I am thrilled to become a part of the organization and to advance our ability to change women’s lives through physical activity and, specifically, through this amazing sport.”

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