The Saint Joseph's Rowing programs recognized the accomplishments of two of the University's most distinguished alumni, Rev. William Byron, S.J. '51 and Robert Gillin '49, with the dedication of the newest women's shell (Byron-Gillin AMDG) in their honor. The pair were lifelong friends and teammates on the rowing team at Saint Joseph's Prep before continuing their academic careers together on Hawk Hill and later going on to achieve remarkable personal and professional success.

A native of nearby Overbrook, Robert Gillin was renowned as an entrepreneur, developer and business owner.  Co-founder of the Petroleum Heat and Power Company, he was an institution at the Jersey shore and instrumental to the development of the City of Avalon.  Well regarded for his civic contributions, the devout Catholic was recognized for his service to the Church on several occasions, including being honored as a Knight of Malta in 1975 and with the Papal Order of St. Gregory the Great in 1982.  He played a critical role in the construction of the SJU Boathouse, which is named after his late son, Robert Jr., and was dedicated in 2002.  Married to his wife Martie for 55 years, the father of 10 children passed away in June 2012.

A distinguished educator and writer, Fr. Byron was ordained a priest in 1961.  He later served as President at St. Joseph's Prep, Loyola University in New Orleans, The Catholic University of America and the University of Scranton. A prolific author, the Jesuit has published 18 books and received numerous awards for Catholic Leadership and Education. 

Loyal and dedicated alumni, Gillin and Fr. Byron both served on SJU's Board of Trustees.  Each was recognized with the Shield of Loyola Award, the University's highest honor, Gillin receiving the inaugural award in 1981 and Byron honored in 1990.