Cheers to Clean Water

It is a professional milestone and honor to write to you as the new Director of the Minnesota Section of the AWWA. I am deeply humbled by the trust and confidence placed in me by the membership of this great organization. Thank you to past Director Eric Volk for his mentorship, leadership, and friendship. We are a better organization because of your service.

Not sure if anyone can effectively ‘settle into the role’ of director; as most past Directors will convey, the time goes very quickly, and progress on the ‘to-do list’ never gets to the final task. As part of this role, communicating the importance of community, shared goals, and collective action top my ‘to-do list.’

My path to the position of Section Director wasn’t a result of any grand gestures, but rather consistent involvement and dedication to the water profession and Section. Through incremental efforts in volunteering and participation at a District, Section, and now Association level, I have learned of the depth and breadth of our Association and the impact we can make working together.

The Annual Conference provides an excellent forum to discuss and move forward on the important issues. The Conference is more than a gathering of professionals; it’s a strategic opportunity. For both seasoned members and newcomers, this event provides a platform to engage in meaningful dialogue, shared expertise, and understand the nuances of the world of water.

One focus of the annual Conference is to provide members an opportunity to determine their place within our committees. Each committee serves a critical role in advancing the mission of AWWA, and by finding your fit, you can channel your expertise and passion. It cannot be emphasized strongly enough: WE NEED YOU.

I strongly encourage all attendees to explore our committees; many are hosting meetings that week, and your attendance is welcome and appreciated (check the online schedule to learn more). Ask questions, and discover where you can make an impact. The collaborative environment of the Conference, amplified by the surroundings of Lake Superior, offers the perfect backdrop for you to contribute and grow in the organization.

While the Conference is a space to engage in dialogue that shape our local water future, it’s also an opportunity to discuss and align with national initiatives, most notably AWWA’s Water 2050.

Water 2050 isn’t merely a vision; it’s an actionable blueprint for the water community’s next three decades. With sustainability, technology, economics, governance, and social/demographics as its core drivers, this initiative calls for an inclusive approach. AWWA’s series of think tanks surrounding this initiative serve as hubs of innovation, drawing expertise from within and outside the water sector. Now, as we transition into the implementation phase, there is a profound opportunity for all members to contribute.

In the spirit of unity and collaboration, I urge attendees of our conference to explore involvement in both local committees and the broader Water 2050 initiative. Whether you’re inclined towards education, conference planning, policymaking, technological advancements, sustainability, or any other facet, there’s a space for your expertise and passion.

To truly make an impact, our actions must resonate at all levels. As we gather for the Conference, let’s embrace the opportunity to not only refine our local strategies, but also align them with the goals of Water 2050.

This organization remains deeply rooted and committed to water in Minnesota. We take pride in our responsibilities and influence as it extends far beyond our collective strength as a Section and Association. This is not possible without the individual contributions of our members. The future of water is a shared vision, and together, through local action and national collaboration, we can pave the way for a sustainable, resilient, and prosperous water future.

I look forward to discussing these pivotal topics and more over the next three years as I serve the role of Director for MN-AWWA. Together, let’s shape the narrative of water for Minnesota. •