Giving and Gaining

AWWA's board of directors was never designed for simplicity. It was designed for representation. Its 64 members bring together voices from all 43 sections, six councils, three directors-at-large, The Water Research Foundation, young professionals, and AWWA's elected officers. Board members serve three-year terms, and each year roughly one-third rotate off the board. That constant renewal helps bring fresh ideas and perspectives to AWWA while creating opportunities for members to step into leadership and service. Just as important, the three-year term creates an experience that gives back to those who volunteer their time in ways they often do not expect. For the past several years, each departing board class has shared a piece of wisdom with the members who will follow them. The goal is clear: pass along insights that can help the next class prepare for the important work ahead. This year, the Class of 2026 shared its reflections with the Class of 2029; I found them so thoughtful and valuable that I wanted to share them with all of AWWA. Together, their insights illustrate a simple truth: while board members give their time, talent, and energy to AWWA, they often receive just as much in return. That's the essence of giving and gaining. The following is from “AWWA's Class of 2026 Water Story.” As the AWWA Board Class of 2026 reflects [on] the past three years, we recognize this experience has been an incredible opportunity for growth, collaboration, and service. Through meaningful work, lasting relationships, and a shared commitment to protecting public health, we have each contributed to something far greater than ourselves. This water story was created to capture those reflections, in entirely our own words (with an assist from AI!), highlighting why water matters, why we serve, and what we carry forward. This water story represents the voices, experiences, and collective impact of the Class of 2026. If you’re wondering how a 64-member board gets anything done, the answer is simple: a board designed for representation succeeds because people from across our profession bring their voices, experiences, and commitment to the shared purpose of creating a better world through better water—it is the world's most vital resource, after all.