June 17, 2015 -- Last week at its Annual Conference and Exposition (ACE15) in Anaheim, Calif., the American Water Works Association (AWWA) held its gavel-passing ceremony, where it announced that Gene Koontz of Harrisburg, Pa., has begun his one-year term as president of the organization.
The ceremony on Wednesday, June 10, concluded ACE15, which drew more than 11,700 water professionals and technology providers. A specialist in water quality and treatment, Koontz oversees the national water market for Gannett Fleming, a global infrastructure firm that provides planning, design, technology, and construction management services for a diverse range of markets and disciplines.
Koontz, an AWWA member since 1982, told the crowd that he will build on several new AWWA initiatives, including the establishment of an office in India, the launch of the Community Engineering Corps, the introduction of the Water Equation Campaign, and the expansion of AWWA's Total Water Solutions® offerings. He also noted that he will concentrate on engaging students and young professionals to ensure a healthy future for the water profession.
Koontz accepted the gavel from Immediate Past President John Donahue, Chief Executive Officer of North Park (Ill.) Water District. "We have set the bar for AWWA very high in the past couple of years," Donahue said prior to handing over the gavel. "We have introduced new programs, created a new culture, broadened our reach, and expanded our vision. It has been an honor to be a part of everything we have done and are doing, and I know AWWA is in excellent hands with our new president."
Koontz has served as an active volunteer and leader within the AWWA Pennsylvania Section as well as on the broader Association level. He has held many leadership positions within the Pennsylvania Section, including Section Chair, Chair of the Water Quality Committee, member of the Water Utility Council, and Chair of the Program Committee. On a broader level, he has served on three separate Water Research Foundation project advisory committees.
See also:
"ACE15: Big Sky, MT, wins 11th annual 'Best of the Best' Tap Water Taste Test"
"AWWA officially releases 2015 State of the Water Industry Report"
About AWWA
Established in 1881, the American Water Works Association is the largest nonprofit, scientific and educational association dedicated to managing and treating water, the world’s most important resource. With approximately 50,000 members, AWWA provides solutions to improve public health, protect the environment, strengthen the economy and enhance our quality of life. For more information, visit www.awwa.org.
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