Welcome to our annual Power Issue. If you’re a longtime reader, you know what this issue is all about — recognizing those whose passionate endeavors have elevated or advanced the field of aquatics.
In other words, my heroes.
This year’s group of 10 such heroes include names you will no doubt recognize, stalwarts such as Leslie Donavan of Starfish Aquatics Institute, who has valiantly travelled the world over to bring water safety programs and lifeguard education to some of the most vulnerable countries. Or Tara Eggleston Stewart, who continues to help shape the direction of aquatics education through her work with organizations such as the Association of Aquatics Professionals and the National Recreation and Park Association.
You might also recognize Wallace J. Nichols. He’s the author of Blue Mind, a book that’s drawn an outpouring of positive attention to the power of water, something that can only further benefit our industry.
But there are many others whose hard work may not be as apparent. Carl Nylander, a partner at Counsilman-Hunsaker, has tirelessly devoted countless hours over the past decade to help create and revise the Model Aquatic Health Code. Another unsung hero is Bruce Dunn, whose leadership as chairman of the National Swimming Pool Foundation was undeniably key to the group’s recent advances.
And that’s just half our group. I invite you to get to know all of our 2018 honorees. Each has left an indelible mark on our industry and deserves recognition.
But they’re not the only deserving ones out there. Last month, during our general session at AOAP’s Conference and Expo, I announced a new, ongoing spotlight in our e-newsletter to honor those at the front lines of our industry, the ones who work with customers day in and day out, whether it’s as a lifeguard, a pool operator, a swim instructor, etc. We’re calling it “Everyday Heroes,” and it’s open for anyone to nominate another at your company or facility for going above and beyond. Simply send me an email explaining why you think your nominee should be recognized, along with their headshot. It would be my honor to give them their due.
