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.

2011 Steward Board Election 

June will mark an historic change in governance for the Washington Rowing Stewards board of directors. Under new bylaws, seven of the 21 board seats will be up for election in June. Are you interested in running? The current board hopes that you are.
 

How to Apply for a Board Position: 

1.       Anyone who wishes to serve on the board may offer his or her name as a candidate. All friends, alums, and parents are eligible.

2.       Anyone who wishes to nominate another person to serve on the board may do so as long as the person being nominated agrees to fulfill the requirements of a director.

3.       All candidates must agree to work on at least one board initiative, and contribute financially to the rowing program each year while in office. 

4.       All interested candidates must contact board chair Chuck Turbak no later than April 23 at turbakgrp6@aol.com.

5.       Along with the statement of interest, all candidates should furnish Chuck with a brief response to the following questions:

a.       What is your connection to the Husky rowing program?

b.      What volunteer activity is of greatest interest to you?

c.       What skills do you possess to aid in this focus?

(Your response to each question should be no longer than a sentence or two in length.)

6.     Potential candidates who are unsure of the board’s activities should consider three categories: fundraising, event management, and team support (e.g. mentor program). Be advised, too, that interest in fundraising support is in particular need.

7.     The nominating committee will review the candidates who have volunteered to run and will serve as the link between the candidates and the board until the election has been held.   

This is your chance to reconnect with the Husky rowing program. This is your chance to guide board efforts in the directions you think important. Get back in the boat by contacting Chuck today.

 Election Schedule:

April 23              Final date for all board nominations. 

May 1                 The board nominating committee selects candidates to run for the open positions.

May 6                 The slate is announced. Included with the announcement will be brief biographies and board interests of the candidates along with a proxy for your vote.

June 8                The formal election will be concluded at Conibear Shellhouse. Votes of those present will be added to the proxies and the election results announced. Other business may be conducted, as necessary. 

Current Washington Rowing Stewards:

Executive Committee

Current Board Members