January 25th 2025.
Xavier University in Louisiana has made history by becoming the first historically black college or university (HBCU) to establish a varsity-level co-ed rowing program. The university announced earlier this week that this groundbreaking program, which has been in the works since 2023 in partnership with the New Orleans Rowing Club (NORC), will officially become a university sport in the upcoming fall semester.
The decision to elevate the rowing club to varsity status has been met with great excitement and pride from the Xavier community. This momentous occasion marks a significant step forward in promoting diversity and inclusivity in the world of rowing, and it is a testament to the university's commitment to providing its students with opportunities for growth, both on and off the water.
According to NORC members Elizabeth Manley, Ph.D., and Chloé Jobin, the launch of this program not only signifies a new era for Xavier rowing, but it also represents the building of a strong community and the inspiration of future generations. As the team prepares to compete on a national level, it is clear that their success will go far beyond the realm of sports.
Since its inception in 2023, the Xavier rowing club has attracted attention and support from various organizations in the rowing community. This includes sponsorships and donations from prominent companies such as USRowing, Mr. Cooper's A Most Beautiful Thing Inclusion Fund, Vespoli USA, JL Athletics, and Concept2. These partnerships are a testament to the growing popularity and recognition of the program.
The rowing team will now join other sports under the Xavier Athletics umbrella, including basketball, baseball, and softball. This addition not only expands the university's sports offerings but also showcases its commitment to providing its students with a well-rounded college experience.
As the program continues to grow, Xavier University is actively seeking a head coach and will be stepping up its recruitment efforts to attract talented rowers. This exciting development is just one of the many milestones that the university has achieved in recent years. In 2025, it surpassed the $100 million fundraising mark, a testament to its ongoing success and dedication to its students' education and growth. The future looks bright for Xavier University, and it will undoubtedly continue to make history and pave the way for diversity and inclusion in the world of sports.
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