Amanda Kraus Steps Down as USRowing CEO

Amanda Kraus will step down as CEO of USRowing, the national governing body for the sport of rowing in the United States. Kraus departs after five years in the position that saw significant growth in membership and participation, as well as efforts to attract new demographics to the sport.

The USRowing Board of Directors intends to appoint an experienced interim CEO and has retained a search firm to begin the process for a permanent successor. Kraus will stay on through April 10, 2026, to ensure an orderly transition.

“Leading USRowing has been one of the great honors of my professional life,” Kraus said, who began her tenure in November 2020. “I’m incredibly proud of what we’ve built together—athletes performing on the world stage, a member community that continues to grow, and a stronger, more resilient organization. It has been a true privilege to serve, and I will always be grateful to the people who make this sport what it is.

“As we look ahead to LA28 and beyond, I’m confident USRowing is positioned to keep building momentum and delivering for national team athletes and members alike.”

Board Chair Kirsten Feldman said Kraus’s tenure will leave a legacy.

“Amanda has led with clarity, courage, and deep care for the rowing community,” Feldman said. “Under her leadership, USRowing strengthened its foundation and accelerated its trajectory—supporting international success with her athlete-centered focus, expanding member value, investing in inclusion, and improving our operating performance. We are grateful for Amanda’s service and the standard she has set, and we will carry that momentum forward as we begin the search for our next CEO.”

Among other accomplishments during her tenure, USRowing’s membership and event footprint saw significant increases. In 2024, the NGB reported a record 72,600 average paid members and in 2023, the organization reached an all-time high of over 77,000 average individual members. Both of USRowing’s domestic flagship events — Youth National Championships and RowFest National Championships — were also recognized by SportsTravel as the Best New Sports Event and Best Amateur Sports Event, respectively, at the SportsTravel Awards.

Kraus also launched United We Row, supporting 1,000 U.S. Veterans and armed service members with disabilities through Freedom Rows, and gifting $145,000 in scholarships.