Meet the DEI Committee: Myrna Gotrell

Tell us a little about yourself.

I am Myrna Keise Gotrell, born in Jamaica as the last of eight. I currently live in Hackensack, N.J., with my partner and three kids and work at Hackensack High School (HHS) in special education with neurodivergent learners. I also am founding and current coach of HHS Crew; assistance coach at Bergen County Rowing Academy; a former broadcast journalist, florist, and event planner; an advocate for the underdog; and a cancer slayer.

Which groups form your social identity? Which groups do you most identify with?

I am Jamaican-African American by ethnicity. Jamaica is a melting pot of a lot of different ethnic groups, and that is the environment I was raised in. Thus, you will find my circle to be multi-ethnic, virtually a United Nations of family and friends, to which the rowing community has relatively recently been added.

What is your motivation for committing your time to the DEI committee?

Entering the world of rowing as a Black woman was particularly challenging for me. It was more so for my daughter as an athlete. I also see the challenges for the neurodivergent athletes that I coach. I want to expand USRowing's opportunities in these areas to ensure all athletes have a sense of belonging in this sport and that it becomes accessible for all.

If you could leave a "mark on the world" that preceded you, what would it be?

"You are enough. You are capable. You belong here. Own your space."

Who is your biggest influence in life?

My mom, for instilling in me an independence and a strong will to fight through adversity.

If you could wave a magic wand over rowing, what would the sport look or feel like to you? How can others in the rowing community help make that happen?

Rowing as a sport would be a part of every physical education curriculum in every school across the country. It would be accessible to all regardless of socio-economic status, ethnicity, or orientation.

What brings you joy?

Seeing my students and athletes succeed against the odds.