Member Appreciation
More Water. More Stories. More Ways to Celebrate You!
Every water professional has a story. And every story matters.
From students finding their path to experienced professionals serving their communities, our members make a difference every day.
This Member Appreciation celebration is all about you. We are sharing more stories, recognizing the people behind the work, and finding new ways to say thank you for being part of AWWA.
A Message from Susan Franceschi
Watch as Susan, AWWA’s Chief Membership Officer, shares a heartfelt message of gratitude to our members and highlights the power of community that drives AWWA forward.
“After 20 years of working at AWWA, one thing is crystal clear to me how important and committed you, the member, is to not only the association and your local section, but also the profession as a whole.” — Susan Franceschi, Chief Membership Officer
Every Water Journey Matters
New Connections. New Opportunities.
From attending her first AWWA conference to becoming a student chapter president and ACE speaker, Natalia’s water story highlights the power of mentorship, community, and opportunity. Inspired by those who supported her journey, she’s now dedicated to helping the next generation of water professionals grow, connect, and succeed.
More Member Stories
Every member brings a different perspective to the water community. Hear from six more AWWA members as they share their experiences, the people who have helped them, and what keeps them working in water.
Martin Roubal
With more than 40 years of experience in the water industry, Martin Roubal has helped advance pipeline condition assessment through innovative technology and industry collaboration. From developing patented technology in Australia to contributing to AWWA’s M77 Water Main Condition Assessment Manual, Martin’s story highlights the importance of sharing knowledge, connecting with industry peers, and building sustainable water infrastructure for future generations.
Sydney Van Frost
Sydney Van Frost’s passion for environmental sustainability led to a career in water and wastewater engineering in Alaska. Through AWWA, Sidney has built meaningful professional connections, served as chair of the Alaska Section’s Young Professionals Committee, and helped establish the state’s first student chapter. Sydney’s story highlights the power of community, professional growth, and inspiring the next generation of water professionals.
Rebecca Hooper
Rebecca Hooper’s AWWA journey has been shaped by professional growth, mentorship, and a passion for helping others. Inspired by a mentor, Rebecca helped bring the Department of Defense SkillBridge program to American States Utility Services, opening doors for transitioning military service members to explore careers in water and wastewater. Her story highlights the lasting impact of mentorship and the importance of creating opportunities for the next generation of water professionals.
John Civardi
John Civardi’s AWWA journey began at the 1991 Annual Conference in Philadelphia, where he found a community that shared his passion for water. Today, as a Senior Technologist at Carollo Engineers, John continues to make an impact through technical contributions, industry collaboration, and mentorship. His story highlights the lasting connections, shared knowledge, and passion that bring water professionals together across generations.
Sunjae Lee
Sunjae, an AWWA student chapter event manager at Korea University, is passionate about protecting rivers and improving water quality. Her research focuses on developing a Safe-to-Fail framework for urban drainage to help communities strengthen their resilience to flooding and climate change.
Jeffrey Garner
After 20 years in the U.S. Air Force, Jeff Garner found a new way to serve his community through the water industry. Today, as Operations Manager at EPCOR Water Arizona and co-chair of AWWA’s Veterans Initiative, Jeff is passionate about helping fellow veterans discover rewarding careers in water. His story highlights the power of connection, service, and finding a renewed sense of purpose through the AWWA community.
A Message from Mary Svoboda
There’s no better way to celebrate Member Appreciation than with a slightly musical thank-you from Mary Svoboda, Senior Specialist, Membership Programs.
In this joyful video, Mary shares her gratitude for all the amazing AWWA members who make our community shine, especially the students and young professionals who bring such energy and passion to the future of water. Her spontaneous song and smile remind us that AWWA is more than an association; it’s a water community united by purpose, progress, and a little fun along the way.
Members Save 20% at the AWWA Bookstore
November 1 – December 31 | Members Only
Expand your water knowledge with exclusive discounts on standards, manuals, and training tools. Log in to the AWWA Store to access your member savings by using the code THANKU at checkout.
Because every great water professional deserves the best resources.
Shop Member Discounts
More Stories. More Chances to Celebrate.
The celebration continues on social media. Follow AWWA for member stories, special giveaways, and more ways we’re recognizing our water community.
AWWA members will have opportunities to win AWWA swag and other prizes throughout the celebration.
Follow us on LinkedIn, Facebook, and Instagram for monthly giveaways and member stories until December 2025.
#AWWAMember
Follow along and celebrate with us!
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Join The Water Community Today
Every day, AWWA members work together to protect public health, ensure safe water, and build a sustainable future. When you join AWWA, you become part of a global network of more than 50,000 water professionals who share your passion for progress and service.
Gain access to trusted resources, professional development, and a community committed to making a difference locally and worldwide.
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