Charlotte Copp ('18) returns to Palatine Hill after spending the past six years at Northwest Conference rival Pacific University. She began her tenure with the Boxers in the fall of 2018 as the assistant women’s rowing coach and was promoted to head women’s coach in 2021.
“We are thrilled to welcome Charlotte back to Palatine Hill,” Pietrok said. “Charlotte was a leader during her time as a student-athlete and returns to L&C with a great knowledge of the history of the program and our team culture. What she was able to accomplish during her time at Pacific gives me confidence that the Pioneer program is in a great spot going forward. I look forward to watching the future successes of Charlotte and our student-athletes.”
Copp was named the NWC Coach of the Year in the spring of 2024 and earned Collegiate Rowing Coaches Association (CRCA) Co-Division III West Region Coach of the Year honors alongside outgoing Pioneers head coach Sam Taylor.
During her tenure at Pacific, she coached six All-NWC honorees, tripled the team's roster size in one semester, and led her squad to a third-place finish at the 2024 NWC Championships - their best finish in program history.
"To be hired by my alma mater feels very special to me," Copp said. "Lewis & Clark saw my potential when I was 17, and now, ten years later, they see my potential to elevate both programs. I’m thrilled to rejoin a successful program with a rich legacy and am excited to see where we can go from here. Working with both squads and a large staff of assistants, as well as connecting with alumni and supporters, is something I eagerly look forward to. It wasn’t one thing or another that interested me in the program; it’s the whole package."
Copp was a four-year rower for the Pioneers and earned a spot on the All-NWC team her senior season after stroking the 1V8+.
"I’d like to thank Petie, Sharon Sexton, the assistant coaches, and the hiring committee, including the current students who participated in the interview process,” Copp said. “Everyone's engagement in finding the right person for the job showed me how supported the team is across the athletic department, which just made me more excited for this position."
Copp's vision for Lewis & Clark rowing is clear and ambitious. "I’m a big dreamer, and with big dreams comes the smaller goals to help you get there,” she said. “I hope to intentionally recruit athletes for both the men’s and women’s (Dub) squad to bring in experienced rowers or experienced athletes who envision their futures at L&C. From there, we will develop depth and breadth in both programs with strong technique and fitness, and see how far we can take each group regionally and nationally while continuing to build a supportive, respectful, and fun culture.”
In addition to her new role, Copp will continue to serve as the President of the Western Intercollegiate Rowing Association and Treasurer of the Portland Vancouver Rowing Association.
