Columbia Athletics Mourns the Passing of Former Director of Rowing Scott McKee
11/21/2025 10:44:00 AM | General, Women's Rowing, Heavyweight Rowing, Lightweight Rowing
McKee served as a Columbia rowing coach for 13 years
NEW YORK — Columbia Athletics mourns the passing of Scott McKee, former Columbia heavyweight rowing coach and director of rowing, who passed away on October 28 at the age of 65 after a courageous battle with cancer.
McKee was a proud Rutgers and Columbia alumnus and a member of the 1985 U.S. National Team. He left a lasting mark during his 13 years leading the Columbia rowing program.
"Scott was an inspirational person to so many people in the rowing world and beyond," said director of rowing Tom Terhaar. "His competitiveness, sense of humor, patience, and kindness were felt by everyone who knew him. Scott inspired generations of athletes, coaches, and future coaches at a profound level. Humble, generous, and wise beyond his years, the name Scott McKee will always bring a smile to everyone's face who knew him. Rutgers Crew and Columbia Rowing have lost a very special person."
He played a key role in launching the $6 million revitalization of the boathouse, which broke ground in 1999 and helped lay the foundation for the Columbia Rowing program's future.
Over the course of his career, Scott coached nearly 2,000 athletes, many of whom saw him as far more than a coach. His positivity, mentorship and love for the sport created an environment where athletes felt supported, challenged and inspired.
Scott will be remembered as a lifelong steward of Columbia Rowing. Columbia Athletics extends its heartfelt condolences to Scott's family and friends during this difficult time.
McKee was a proud Rutgers and Columbia alumnus and a member of the 1985 U.S. National Team. He left a lasting mark during his 13 years leading the Columbia rowing program.
"Scott was an inspirational person to so many people in the rowing world and beyond," said director of rowing Tom Terhaar. "His competitiveness, sense of humor, patience, and kindness were felt by everyone who knew him. Scott inspired generations of athletes, coaches, and future coaches at a profound level. Humble, generous, and wise beyond his years, the name Scott McKee will always bring a smile to everyone's face who knew him. Rutgers Crew and Columbia Rowing have lost a very special person."
He played a key role in launching the $6 million revitalization of the boathouse, which broke ground in 1999 and helped lay the foundation for the Columbia Rowing program's future.
Over the course of his career, Scott coached nearly 2,000 athletes, many of whom saw him as far more than a coach. His positivity, mentorship and love for the sport created an environment where athletes felt supported, challenged and inspired.
Scott will be remembered as a lifelong steward of Columbia Rowing. Columbia Athletics extends its heartfelt condolences to Scott's family and friends during this difficult time.
Lions Rewind: Sept. 26 - Oct. 24, 2025
Wednesday, November 05
ROARfest
Friday, October 10
Lions Rewind: Sept. 1-25, 2025
Wednesday, October 01
Feature: 2025 National Girls & Women in Sports Day Panel
Wednesday, February 05
