QUICK SUMMARY
Richard N. Laurance, a 1974 graduate of the University of Puget Sound, donated $1,050,000 to support the school's rowing program. The endowment aims to sustain over 60 years of competitive rowing and inspire future alumni contributions. UPS President Isiaah Crawford expressed gratitude for the gift, emphasizing its role in fostering a championship culture for student-athletes.
Richard N. Laurance, a 1974 graduate of the University of Puget Sound, donated $1,050,000 to support the school's rowing program. This unrestricted gift aims to sustain the university's over 60-year tradition of competitive rowing. UPS President Isiaah Crawford stated that the contribution advances a championship culture for student-athletes. Both the men's and women's rowing teams have enjoyed recent successes, with the women's team winning the Lamberth Cup for the third consecutive year and completing an undefeated Northwest Conference season. Laurance, a former member of the rowing team, expressed a strong desire to give back to a sport that has profoundly influenced his life. He excelled as a competitor and later dedicated 22 years to coaching collegiate and high school rowers. His coaching led to participation in prestigious events and international competitions. Laurance's endowment aims to ensure the program's long-term sustainability, allowing future generations of Loggers to experience competitive rowing.