United We Row Summit Returns in 2025

USRowing presents the 2025 United We Row Summit, a free and interactive two-day virtual conference taking place Wednesday, November 19, through Thursday, November 20. Designed for rowing leadership and coaches, the summit offers a unique opportunity to connect, share ideas, and gain practical tools for building more inclusive and effective boathouses. This year’s theme, Next Level, focuses on elevating programs, enhancing fundraising efforts, and strengthening team culture by learning from leaders who are driving progress across the sport.

The summit will feature eight engaging sessions led by rowing pioneers, partners, and athlete-advocates, offering insights for both new and seasoned leaders. Attendees will gain actionable strategies and make meaningful connections to help propel their teams forward. A major highlight of this year’s event is the exclusive reveal of a new national partner—an exciting collaboration set to transform USRowing and the broader rowing community. Don’t miss this chance to be part of a movement that’s pushing the sport to new heights.

Schedule of events, all times are ET:

Day 1 — Wednesday, November 19

12:00 - 12:15 p.m.- Before You Can Serve Me, You Must See Me: Creating Safe Spaces Through Sport

This isn’t just a speech — it’s a call. A reminder that before you pour into me, you must first recognize me. Before you teach me, lead me, or heal me — you must see me. My humanity, my culture, my story.

Speaker: Kwabena Antoine Nixon

1:00 - 2:00 p.m.- Getting a New Program Off the Ground Panel

What does it take to launch a successful rowing program in a new community? Leaders share the ups, downs, and practical steps for going from zero to one.

Speakers: Brannon Johnson, Jewoo Im, and Lucianna Ruiz

2:00 - 2:15 p.m.- Break

2:15 - 3:00 p.m.- Adaptive Rowing: National Partnerships Announcement

Be there for the exclusive reveal of a brand-new national partner that’s set to transform rowing opportunities nationwide. Hear how this collaboration will help the sport — and your program — reach new heights.

3:00 pm - 3:45 p.m.- Center for Healing and Justice Through Sport - Girls in Sport: Equity, Access & Agency

A targeted training to unpack the systemic barriers girls face in sport and equip coaches with tools to build body confidence, increase participation, and support agency and voice in girls and gender-diverse athletes.

Speaker: Jillian Green Loughran, MPA/MA

3:45 - 4:00 p.m.- Closing and Wrap-Up

Day 2 — Thursday, November 20

12:00 – 12:15 p.m.- Hello Insight — Overview

Join Hello Insight for a short overview of their impact tools and learn how they can support clubs in measuring outcomes and building stronger programs.

12:15 – 1:00 p.m.- Keynote: Tom Farrey — The Aspen Project

Hear from Tom Farrey on how to take youth sports to the next level. Drawing from his work with the Aspen Project, Tom will share insights on building community, fostering athlete development, and creating lasting access to sport.

1:00 – 1:45 p.m.- Next Level Neurodivergence

Olympian and advocate Caragh McMurtry shares her journey and expertise on supporting neurodivergent athletes. Learn tangible skills and best practices for creating inclusive environments where all athletes can thrive.

Speaker: Caragh McMurtry

1:45 – 2:00 p.m. - Break

2:00 – 2:45 p.m. - Next Level Fundraising — Panel Discussion

RowLA, Baltimore Community Rowing, Gold Cup Foundation From board engagement to corporate sponsorships to creative grassroots campaigns, this panel will share proven strategies to take your fundraising to the next level.

Speakers: Christi Anderson, Karyn Shackelford

2:45 – 3:45 p.m. - Parents as Partners — Positive Coaching Alliance

Positive Motivation for Managers equips coaches and leaders with tools to build strong relationships, create a motivating team culture, and navigate challenging conversations with confidence. This interactive session will also share strategies for building parent engagement, blending research-based insights with practical tools and activities.

Speaker: Pam Herath