Skidmore College Athletics

Neil Kaye '80, a nationally recognized forensic psychiatrist practicing in Wilmington, DE, founded Skidmore Crew in 1977. He is described by former teammates as a "tireless and focused supporter of the Crew program. Kaye arrived at Skidmore with impressive crew credentials as a former Exeter coxswain and junior national team member. In the fall of 1977, he recruited four novice women, including Abby Peck '78 to sign on as Skidmore's first-ever crew team. After three weeks of training, Kaye and his team competed in the Head of the Charles in Cambridge, MA, for the country's premier regatta and came in an impressive 25th of 40 boats.  

Kaye also established crew teams for his other alma mater, Albany Medical College, as well as for Albany Law School, SUNY Albany, and the City of Albany. At home in Delaware, he spearheaded the establishment of a youth rowing club, for which he recently dedicated a new boathouse. “This is a very big honor and a complete surprise. The fact that Skidmore's program has become so successful is especially gratifying.”