This story was published in the Winter 2026 edition of School Ties magazine
On a bright summer Sunday in August 2024, the St. Michaels University School rowing community gathered at the school’s boathouse on the Gorge Waterway for a heartfelt and moving occasion. The christening of the ‘Emily Selwood’, an eight-person rowing shell dedicated to the memory of alumna Emily Selwood ’21, brought together parents, alumni, students, and friends of the school, united in remembrance and celebration of Emily’s life and enduring impact.
Emily was a true “Lifer” at SMUS, beginning her journey in Kindergarten and graduating with the Class of 2021. A gifted student and passionate athlete, Emily found a special joy and sense of belonging in rowing. Tragically, Emily’s life was cut short in the fall of 2021 when she was struck and killed by a drunk driver while studying at the University of British Columbia. Her loss deeply affected all who knew her within the SMUS family and beyond. Naming a boat in her honour seemed a fitting way to keep her spirit and memory alive, and our community responded with generous support.
The christening of the Emily Selwood shell was both a tribute to, and recognition of, the strong ties within the rowing community at SMUS. Surrounded by the natural beauty of the Gorge waterway, where countless SMUS rowers have trained and competed, guests listened as Emily’s coach, Suzanne Walker-Curry spoke lovingly about her student-athlete. Suzanne spoke of Emily’s grit and perseverance. Her words and presence reflected both profound loss and a shared love of their sport.
During the gathering, coaches and alumni shared stories that spoke to Emily’s character: her warmth, her determination, and her ability to lift others up. Current rowers expressed gratitude for the opportunity to row in Emily’s shell, carrying her legacy forward each time they take to the water. Other guests were also invited to give rowing a try in the beautiful new boat, perhaps sparking a bit of the same joy that Emily found through rowing at SMUS.
The School is grateful to Emily’s family — parents Duncan ’88 and Laurie, and sister Meredith ’19 — and to all those who welcomed and supported this tribute to her. Her spirit, so deeply woven into the fabric of SMUS, will continue to move forward in every stroke, in every race, and in every life she continues to touch.
A new SMUS rowing shell named for Emily Selwood '21
Emily Selwood's family christen the new rowing shell in her name
SMUS Rowers and later, guests, row in the new shell
Rowing Head Coach Suzanne Walker-Curry speaks about her student-athlete at the Christening
