Excellence in Aquatics Awards
The Excellence in Aquatics Awards represent the highest honor bestowed by Diversity in Aquatics, recognizing individuals and organizations who have made extraordinary contributions to promoting diversity, safety, and excellence in aquatic environments.
These prestigious awards celebrate leadership, innovation, and impact—shining a spotlight on those working tirelessly to advance water safety, increase aquatic participation among underrepresented communities, and build inclusive pathways in aquatic sports, education, and professions.
Each year, Diversity in Aquatics honors champions who embody the mission to reduce drowning disparities and improve swimming competency for youth and adults in underserved communities—whether through fitness, recreation, health, competition, or professional development. Nominations are due by November.
Our Distinguished Awards
Lee Pitts Award
Jim Ellis Award
For Coaching and Educational Excellence
Presented to an innovative coach, teacher, or researcher who has advanced aquatic education through creativity, dedication, and a commitment to teaching excellence.
Past Winners:
Dr. Angela Beale (2016), Dr. Bill Ramos (2017), Tiffany Monique Quash (2018), Gainus Wright (2019), Tommy Jackson (2020), Veronica Hernandez (2021), Dr. Monica Lepore (2022)
Arthur Lopez Esq. 
"Nadar por Vida" Award
For Dedication to Diversifying Aquatics
This award honors individuals or organizations that have made a profound commitment to diversifying the aquatic space, dedicating significant time, resources, and energy to inclusive access and representation.
Past Winners:
Manny Banks & Dr. Shaun Anderson (2016), Leslie Paul (2017), Nadine Johnson Jesionek (2018), Marye Carter (2019), Amanda Pope (2020), Dr. Asherah Allen (2021), Arkeisha Reese & The Team Kareem Memorial Foundation (2022)
Ken Roland Award
For an Aquatic Professional
Awarded to a professional whose lifelong commitment and visionary leadership have set a new standard for inclusion and excellence in aquatics. This individual lives their mission through selfless service and advocacy for underrepresented communities.
Past Winners:
Jerod Smith (2016), Kevin Sims (2017), John Yearwood (2018), Austin Harris (2019), Sky Walker (2020), Joelle Williams (2021), Coach Bob Troutman (2022)
Maritza Correia
McClendon Award
For Excellence by a Former Athlete of Black and/or Hispanic Descent
Celebrating former athletes of color who have achieved notable success in aquatic sports, this award honors personal effort, perseverance, and influence in advancing representation at the highest levels of competition.
Past Winners:
Isabella Pedraza (2018), Anise Foreman (2019), Nicolas Askew (2020), Noel Singleton (2021), Melissa Wilborn (2022)
Dr. Shaun Anderson President’s Award
For Outstanding Service and Leadership
Selected by the Board of Directors and the President of Diversity in Aquatics, this award honors extraordinary leadership and service within the organization, recognizing those who have made lasting contributions to its mission and vision.
Past Winners:
Tiffany Quash & Tasha Holt (2019), Stephanie Elam (2020), Jamal Hill (2021), Anesti Vega (2022)
Nominate Someone for an Award
Know someone creating lasting impact in the aquatic community? Nominate them for the Excellence in Aquatics Awards! Open to individuals and organizations advancing diversity, safety, and inclusion, these honors celebrate leadership, service, and innovation. Nominations are accepted through November and reviewed by Diversity in Aquatics’ Board of Directors. Recognize a changemaker making waves today!
