Early Life and Education
John Rowe was born in 1945 in Dodgeville, Wisconsin. Raised in a small-town farming community, he developed a strong work ethic that would later define his career. Rowe pursued higher education at the University of Wisconsin, earning a bachelor’s degree in history in 1967. He was an outstanding student, earning membership in the prestigious Phi Beta Kappa honor society.
His academic journey continued at the University of Wisconsin Law School, where he obtained his Juris Doctor degree in 1970. He excelled in his studies, becoming a member of the Order of the Coif, a recognition given to the top graduates in law schools across the country.
A Trailblazer in the Energy Sector
John William Rowe career in the energy industry spanned several decades, during which he held leadership roles in multiple utility companies. His journey began at Central Maine Power Company, where he served as CEO. Later, he took on the same role at New England Electric System, further solidifying his reputation as a strategic leader.
In 1998, Rowe became the CEO of Unicom Corporation, the parent company of Commonwealth Edison. His leadership played a crucial role in the merger between Unicom and PECO Energy Company, leading to the formation of Exelon Corporation in 2000. This merger established Exelon as one of the largest utility companies in the United States.
Under Rowe’s guidance, Exelon focused on nuclear energy, positioning itself as the nation’s largest operator of nuclear power plants. He championed nuclear energy as a reliable, cost-effective, and environmentally friendly alternative to fossil fuels. His strategic decisions emphasized operational efficiency, financial discipline, and sustainability.
Advocacy for Clean Energy and Industry Reforms
John Rowe was a strong advocate for market-driven solutions to climate change. He pushed for policies that supported clean energy and carbon reductions while maintaining affordability for consumers. His leadership in promoting cap-and-trade systems and carbon pricing showcased his commitment to both economic and environmental sustainability.
He served on various advisory panels and committees, contributing to discussions on energy policy and climate change. Rowe’s influence extended beyond Exelon, shaping energy policies at the national level.
Philanthropy and Contributions to Education
Beyond his corporate success, John Rowe was deeply committed to philanthropy, particularly in education and the humanities. Along with his wife, Jeanne, and their son, he established the Rowe Family Charitable Trust, which supported various educational institutions and research programs.
Some of the key contributions of the Rowe Family Charitable Trust include:
- Illinois Institute of Technology: Endowed the Rowe Professorship of Architecture and the Rowe Family Endowed Chair in Sustainable Energy.
- University of Wisconsin: Established the Rowe Professorship of Byzantine History and the Rowe Family Professorship in Greek History.
- Morgridge Institute and the Wisconsin Alumni Research Foundation: Funded the Rowe Professorship in Virology.
- Field Museum: Supported the position of Curator of Evolutionary Biology.
In addition to these contributions, the trust co-founded the Rowe-Clark Math and Science Academy in Chicago’s West Humboldt Park neighborhood, donating $4 million to the school. The family also supported the Pope John Paul II Catholic School and co-founded Rowe Elementary School.
In 2010, Rowe was appointed co-chair of the Commission on the Humanities and Social Sciences by the American Academy of Arts and Sciences. The commission’s report, The Heart of the Matter, emphasized the importance of humanities and social sciences in education, reinforcing Rowe’s dedication to academic excellence.
Personal Life and Legacy
John Rowe was married to Jeanne Rowe, and together they had one son, William. The family lived in both Chicago and Naples, Florida. Despite his corporate achievements, Rowe remained humble, often emphasizing the importance of continuous learning and public service.
On September 24, 2022, John Rowe passed away at his home in Naples at the age of 77. His contributions to the energy sector, education, and philanthropy have left a lasting impact on countless individuals and institutions.
Rowe’s leadership in nuclear energy, commitment to clean energy policies, and philanthropic endeavors have cemented his legacy as a visionary leader who believed in innovation, sustainability, and giving back to the community.
