Rowing Canada Aviron Announces Jennifer Fitzpatrick as Chief Executive Officer

Victoria, BC – October 6, 2026
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE 

The Board of Directors of Rowing Canada Aviron (RCA) is pleased to announce the appointment of Jennifer Fitzpatrick as Chief Executive Officer, following her service as Interim CEO since May 2026. During this period, Jennifer provided strong and steady leadership, guiding the organization through an important period of transition while advancing key organizational and strategic priorities. 

“Following a comprehensive review process, the Board is pleased to announce Jennifer as CEO of Rowing Canada Aviron,” said Tracey Black, President of Rowing Canada Aviron. “Jennifer brings a deep understanding of the rowing community – domestically and internationally. She has proven to be a trusted and steady leader. She has the full confidence of the Board, and we are excited to support her as she leads the implementation of RCA’s strategic plan, Vision 2032.”

Jennifer joined RCA’s senior leadership team as Director of Partnerships and Sport Development in 2017. She built strong relationships with RCA staff, provincial partners, funding partners, and the broader national and international rowing community. In this role, she also designed and led the successful implementation of National Come Try Rowing events and the Community Sport for All Initiative program, expanding access to the sport and driving grassroots growth across the country. In 2024, she was selected to the World Rowing Youth Commission, where she continues to serve.

Before joining RCA, Jennifer led Rowing BC as Executive Director for four years, where she led the staff team in modernizing the organization, creating strategic clarity, and driving financial stability. Prior to that, Jennifer served as President of Rowing New Brunswick Aviron for three years. Jennifer holds a Bachelor of Science in Biochemistry & Molecular Biology and Microbiology & Immunology from Dalhousie University and a Masters of Science in Biology from the University of New Brunswick.

“I’m honoured to lead an organization with such a proud history and passionate rowing community,” said Fitzpatrick. “I’ve seen firsthand the dedication of our staff, Board of Directors, volunteers, athletes, coaches, umpires, and officials across the country. I look forward to building on this strong foundation and working with our Board and members to grow the sport from grassroots to podium.”

Jennifer will lead RCA’s strategic priorities, working closely with the Board, staff, and the broader rowing community to advance the sport across Canada and prioritize podium performances on the international stage.

“Jen brings a continuation of the vision and strategic leadership that will help move Rowing Canada Aviron forward,” said RCA Athlete Director, Aaron Lattimer. “She also brings an operator’s mindset and a genuine degree of care for the people and athletes at the heart of our sport. I’m excited about her ability to help shape and strengthen the athlete experience across rowing in Canada.”

Learn more about Rowing Canada Aviron’s Vision 2032 here.

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MEDIA CONTACT:

Colleen Coderre, Communications Lead
Rowing Canada Aviron
T: 613-530-6217
E: coderre@rowingcanada.org