Angie Goodman Awarded Richard Husby Public Awareness Award 2025

Awarded and recognized by the Michigan Section of the American Water Works Association (MI-AWWA) for significant accomplishments in promoting awareness of water supply among the community through public education, Angie Goodman proudly receives this year’s Richard Husby Public Awareness Award for her continued efforts to keep Lansing’s drinking water clean.

Currently serving as Senior Water Quality Administrator at the Lansing Board of Water & Light (BWL), Goodman entered the field with a strong interest in science. She began her journey at BWL as a Chemist in the Environmental Laboratory.

“At the time, I was drawn to the science side of things – but the more I learned,  the more I realized how deeply connected water is to public health, trust, and community well-being. That’s what really pulled me in,” she shared.

When Goodman was notified of her achievement, she admitted the recognition came as a complete surprise.

She stated, “I do this work for our customers, not for recognition. So when I found out I had been selected, I was completely shocked but deeply honored. It’s incredibly meaningful to be acknowledged for something I care so much about.”

One of the key factors in Goodman’s recognition was her efforts in water education for young students – particularly the development of school-based flushing programs aimed at increasing awareness about lead in drinking water designed for grades K–3, which blends education with empowerment.

“With grant funding, we developed a fun and easy process that empowered students,” she explained. “Each week, a student is chosen as the Water Safety Captain. They come in first thing in the morning, grab their badge and timer, and head to the designated drinking water faucet. They run the cold water at full flow, flip the timer, and once 30 seconds is up, they shut it off and move the Tommy Tap Water magnet to mark the day’s flush.”

She added, “It’s a small step that makes a big difference – and it teaches kids to take an active role in their health and water safety.”

Goodman’s supervisor, Lori Myott, added to this sentiment by praising her deep rooted passion in education concerning water.

“She consistently seeks out creative and innovative approaches to communicate even the most complex or sensitive issues in an engaging and approachable way,” Myott said. “The school flushing program is just one of the many examples that highlights Angie’s commitment to public awareness and education.”

Goodman’s strength in customer service and natural ability to connect with people have become foundational to her work in public awareness. She views water not only as a scientific concern but as a deeply human one.

“This work means a lot to me, both professionally and personally. Water is life – we all depend on it every single day. Yet most people, young and old, rarely think twice when they turn on the faucet and clean water flows out. But it only takes one bad day for that trust to be shaken. If that bad day ever comes, we want them to already know who we are, to trust us, and to feel confident that we’re doing everything we can to make it right – quickly and transparently.”

For those considering a career in public outreach, through the water industry or another passion, Goodman says this: “ First – just do it. Don’t overthink it. Second –and just as important – be the customer. Put yourself in their shoes.”

Lansing Board of Water & Light Awarded Professional Excellence – Organization Award 2025

Awarded and recognized by the Michigan Section of the American Water Works Association (MI-AWWA) for its ongoing, innovative efforts of providing education to the public about reducing exposure to lead in drinking water, the Lansing Board of Water & Light (BWL) Community Water Advisory Council has received this year’s Professional Excellence – Organization Award.

 

Since 1885, the BWL has provided water to Lansing and the surrounding areas, originally to support fire suppression and sanitation. Over time, it became increasingly evident that supplying a reliable source of clean, safe drinking water was essential to the health and well-being of the community.

 

The BWL’s Community Water Advisory Council was established in 2019 in response to Michigan’s 2018 revision of the Lead and Copper Rule (LCR). However, because the BWL had already removed all known active lead service lines by 2016, the council shifted its focus toward reducing exposure within homes and buildings.

 

Upon learning of this recognition, Council Chair Angie Goodman expressed their surprise and gratitude. “Our council has continued to work hard to develop new meaningful ways to provide education regarding lead,” Goodman said. “Their creativity and out-of-the-box thinking deserve recognition.”

 

Since the council’s expansion, they have successfully developed brochures and surveys for new homeowners, as well as their Drinking Water School Flushing Program which was highlighted in their recognition for this honor.

 

“Our council had ongoing conversations about ways to help reduce lead exposure in drinking water – especially for children, who are most vulnerable,” Goodman said. “That’s where the idea for a school-based flushing program began, focusing on elementary students in grades K–3.”

 

The council found that when faucets go unused overnight, lead levels can increase. However, running cold water for just 30 seconds can significantly reduce those levels – often to non-detectable amounts. This became the foundation of an interactive initiative that encourages young students to take part in protecting their health.

 

Although working within the water industry can be challenging at times, it can also be extremely rewarding, as seen in the council’s development of the flushing program.

“Be ready to collaborate – this work is a team effort,” Goodman shared. “If you care about protecting health and a critical resource, we all rely on it. This is a career where you can make a real difference.

 

Goodman also hopes this recognition serves as a reminder to the public: “Even after all lead service lines are replaced, internal plumbing can still pose risks.” Through its dedication, creativity, and commitment to public health, the BWL’s Community Water Advisory Council continues to set an inspiring example for water utilities across the state – creating a lasting impact on the community it serves.

Kelly Gleason Awarded Professional Excellence – Individual Award 2025

Awarded and recognized by the Michigan Section of the American Water Works Association (MI-AWWA) for her outstanding contributions to the Lansing community and her passionate involvement within the Section, Kelly Gleason has been awarded this year’s Professional Excellence – Individual Award.

Gleason, an Environment Compliance Specialist, started her career in water in 2007 when she was first hired at the Lansing Board of Water & Light (BWL). Her commitment to the industry deepened in 2012 when she became a part of the Section in 2012, initially serving on the Competitions Committee. For the past six years, she has served as Editor of the Water Works News, connecting and informing citizens all across Michigan.

Upon learning of the award, Gleason expressed complete gratitude. “I’ve never done this work for recognition – I just try to do my job well and support others along the way,” she shared. “So being selected for the Professional Excellence – Individual Award was both an honor and a reminder that the effort and care we put into our work really can make a difference.”

Gleason went on to elaborate that this award is not only a personal milestone but a reflection of the collaboration and support she has received from colleagues throughout her career.

The Professional Excellence – Individual Award emphasizes leadership, innovation, and commitment to excellence, all qualities that Gleason exemplifies. Whether it’s leading editorial reviews, seeking and writing articles as Editor, or volunteering at Section events, Gleason remains a standout in her role within MI-AWWA.

“To me, leading by example means being dependable, honest, and putting in consistent effort every day,” Gleason said. “I make sure to do my work thoroughly and with integrity, so my teammates know they can trust me to get things done right.”

Lori Myott, Gleason’s supervisor, commended her contributions to the Section, which truly capture the spirit of this honor.

“Throughout her career in the water industry, she has demonstrated outstanding leadership and an unwavering commitment to supporting MI-AWWA and its mission,” Myott explained. “Her knowledge and strong commitment to protecting and preserving our clean water resources are truly impressive”

In addition to Gleason’s responsibilities in the Section, as an Environmental Compliance Specialist, she is deeply engaged within public health by ensuring facilities comply with state and federal water quality regulations. Her day-to-day work involves managing detailed reports, conducting inspections and sampling, and collaborating with plant operators, engineers, and lab staff.

“Public health relies on integrity, accuracy, and accountability – values I hold deeply,” she said. “Knowing that my work can help protect people and the environment by ensuring standards are met gives me a strong sense of purpose.”

Gleason encourages those entering the field to stay curious, embrace learning, and never underestimate the importance of communication and teamwork.

She shared, “if you’re passionate about making a real difference, this is a great industry to be part of.”

2025 Raymond J. Faust Award Recipient: Angie Goodman

The Michigan Section is pleased to recognize Angie Goodman as a 2025 recipient of the Raymond J. Faust Award, honoring outstanding personal service in the water supply field.

As with many of the Section’s most meaningful recognitions, the Faust Award recipient remained a secret until the announcement at MI-ACE. The award commemorates Raymond J. Faust for his lasting contributions to public health engineering, the advancement of safe and reliable water supplies, and his dedication to strengthening the waterworks profession.

Angie Goodman serves as Senior Water Quality Administrator for the Lansing Board of Water & Light, where she has proudly dedicated 24 years of service. Holding F-1 and S-3 licenses, Angie plays a critical role in ensuring compliance with state and federal drinking water regulations, responding to customer inquiries, and maintaining public trust in the community’s water supply.

Angie earned her Bachelor of Science in Biology from Lyman Briggs College at Michigan State University and has spent her career championing clean, safe water for the Lansing community and beyond.

Her commitment to the profession extends well beyond her utility. Angie is an active member of the Michigan Section – American Water Works Association and has served in numerous leadership and committee roles, including Vice-Chair of the Communication Council, member of the Research and Treatment Practices Committee, and participant on the AWWA Online Standards Committee. She also led the Tri-County Groundwater Management Board’s Technical Advisory Council for more than a decade and now serves as a voting board member. In addition, she chairs BWL’s Community Water Advisory Council for Lead.

Angie’s creativity and passion for education have left a lasting impact. She designed BWL’s mascot, Tommy Tap Water, authored children’s books focused on water topics, helped launch a school-based program to reduce lead exposure, and redesigned the Annual Water Quality Report to prioritize transparency and public education.

Outside of work, Angie enjoys art projects, spending time with family, and caring for her three golden retrievers. She looks forward to continuing her service to the Section as Chair-Elect Nominee for MI-AWWA.

The Michigan Section congratulates Angie Goodman on this well-deserved recognition and thanks her for her outstanding service, leadership, and dedication to protecting public health through safe drinking water.

Rachel McNamara Awarded Young Professional Award 2025

Awarded and recognized by the Michigan Section of the American Water Works Association (MI-AWWA) for her notable contributions and impact in the Section and her efforts within the Deep End cohort, Rachel McNamara has been honored with this year’s Young Professional of the Year Award.

McNamara began her journey in the industry in 2021 as a Project Engineer for the City of Grand Rapids Water System. During the peak of COVID-19, she spent a year working in hazardous water and air pollution monitoring, searching for a job that didn’t involve spreadsheets and working from her parents’ home office.

“Those days, I was applying to anything I could find and the City just happened to be the first to respond back. I actually didn’t know the position was in Water/Sewer until my interview,” she explained. “You could say I had to shoot from the hip when I was asked an interview question about pump asset management.”

As she grew into the role, so did her appreciation for the field, not just for the systems behind safe water, but for the people who operate them.

“Mike Hielkema, Hillary Caron, our Field Operations crew, Plant Operators, Sewer Asset Technicians – I learned what I did because of you and you made my career in water so fun and rewarding,” McNamara said.

Through her efforts in developing the Deep End, a cohort dedicated to connecting emerging professionals in the industry with experienced professionals to pass down their knowledge, played a pivotal role in her recognition.

“I saw a need that AWWA could meet by creating a training program catered to the emerging professional that would lay the foundations for a well-rounded understanding of water and sewer utility operations using the organization’s own senior members as Instructors,” McNamara shared.

Upon receiving news of the award, McNamara was shocked, soon overtaken by appreciation as well as hope for future leaders in the industry.

“This organization gave me  a unique opportunity to build something meaningful that I hope will benefit the next generation of water professionals,” she shared. “Positive progress is achieved when young professionals are given a voice to share their perspectives and drive change.”

Colleague Hillary Caron praised McNamara’s leadership and ability to create an inclusive environment in the field.

 “Rachel is building a legacy. The ripple effect of her work, especially through The Deep End, will benefit the water industry in ways we’re only beginning to see,” Caron explained. “She’s fostering a culture of curiosity and inclusivity for new professionals, all while reinforcing the importance of understanding the full One Water cycle. Her impact is lasting and transformative.”

Throughout the early stages of creating the Deep End, McNamara was guided by this mantra: “If you want to build a ship, don’t drum up people to collect wood, and don’t assign them tasks and work. Instead, teach them to long for the endless immensity of the sea.”

With her ingenuity, passion, and inclusive spirit, Rachel McNamara remains an inspiring and invaluable asset to the water industry.

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City of Allegan Awarded Exemplary Source Water Protection Award 2025.

Awarded and recognized by the Michigan Section of the American Water Works Association (MI-AWWA) for his exceptional contributions and impact in Michigan’s water and his leadership within the Allegan Wellhead Protection Committee, Doug Sweeris and the team at the City of Allegan have been honored with this year’s Exemplary Source Water Protection Award.

Sweeris, the city’s Water Utilities Director, has a long-standing and personal connection to water. As an avid fisherman and having run a fishing charter business in college, his unique experiences have sparked a career in the water industry.

Sweeris began his tenure with the City of Allegan in 1993 as an operator at the wastewater plant, eventually becoming its superintendent. In 2015, he transitioned to  the  superintendent of the water plant, and in 2017, after the water distribution and sewer collection systems were transferred to his department he took on his current role as Director of Water Utilities.

“My passion for clean water started with a passion for being outdoors, hunting, fishing, farming,” Sweeris shared. “I look  at the community I live and work in and I strive to provide the community with the best water possible.”

Being recognized as an outstanding public water system that has created and implemented exemplary source water protection programs, the Allegan Wellhead Protection Committee has performed exceedingly well, focusing on education and outreach.

Sweeris described receiving the award as a “surprise moment” for both himself and the team.

“Submitting the application, you always hope that yours is selected, but then you think of how many other applications are submitted and all the good source water programs that other communities operate,” Sweeris explained. “Then we got the notification that our program was selected to receive the award, and this gives another level of ‘We do have a good source water protection program.’”

The city became exceedingly motivated to strengthen its water protection after learning a local misconception: that Allegan’s water came from the nearby Kalamazoo River.

“This idea that our own residents have that their water comes from the [Kalamazoo] river made me feel that they did not know about Allegan water,” Sweeris explained. “This creates a drive that I want to make people aware of where our water comes from. To maintain this pristine source, we need to take care of it.”

Sweeris’s leadership and passion have not gone unnoticed. His supervisor, Joel Dye, commended his hands-on approach and dedication.

 “Doug leads by example and encourages all employees to participate,” Dye said. “While some may want to sit back in their office and manage from afar, Doug is out in public, always willing to engage and talk water with anyone.”

Sweeris would like to thank his wife and son for their constant support in his endeavor to promote and protect clean water.

Joe Buthker Awarded Operator Meritorious Service Award 2025

Awarded and recognized by the Michigan Section of the American Water Works Association (MI-AWWA) for his passion, precision, and impact in the City of Muskegon’s water operations, Joseph Buthker has been honored with this year’s Operator Meritorious Service Award.

With a strong foundation in chemistry, Buthker’s entry into the water industry began with encouragement from his neighbor. A tour of the City of Muskegon’s water plant quickly sparked his curiosity, changing the trajectory of his career.

 “Seeing firsthand how drinking water is treated and delivered gave me an appreciation for a product I had used my entire life without thinking much about it,” Buthker said.

He began his career in 2014 as a Water Plant Operator, quickly developing a lasting passion for the field. Over the next decade, he immersed himself in both operations and maintenance, gaining valuable experience and building a well-rounded understanding of what it takes to run a water treatment facility effectively.

Through his commitment and dedication, Buthker was eventually promoted to Water

 

Plant Superintendent and eventually to his current role as Public Works Superintendent. In this position, he oversees the city’s water distribution system, highway maintenance, and equipment operations.

“I am enjoying the process of developing a deeper understanding of water distribution while making meaningful contributions to its operations and maintenance,” he said.

Buthker’s efforts extend beyond day-to-day responsibilities. He has invested in staff development, enhancing preventive maintenance programs, and contributing to capital improvement planning – all of which contributed to his recognition by MI-AWWA.

Upon receiving the award, Buthker expressed both gratitude and humility.

“In public service, and especially in the water industry, so much of the work happens behind the scenes,” Buthker explained. “That’s why having this work recognized truly means a great deal to me. However, I don’t see this as a personal achievement, but as a reflection of the team effort behind it.”

His supervisor, Dan VanderHeide, echoed this statement.

“While we see Joe’s hard work and attention to detail here in Muskegon every day, it’s great to know that others in the field recognize it as well,” VanderHeide said. “Joe has a passion for water quality and efficient operation, and he works closely with supervisors and staff to spread that work ethic throughout our water department.”

When asked what advice he’d offer to those considering a career in the water industry, Buthker emphasized the value of hands-on experience.

“Take every opportunity to step in when problems arise,” he advised. “These moments often serve as some of the best learning experiences and can significantly enhance your knowledge of what it takes to run and maintain a water system.”

Joseph Buthker continues to lead by example – serving as a hands-on, forward- thinking leader who brings integrity and excellence to every facet of his work.

Matt Weldon Awarded MI-AWWA Chuck Van Der Kolk Volunteer Award 2025

Recognized for his outstanding contributions and lasting impact within the Michigan Section of the American Water Works Association (MI-AWWA), Matt Weldon has been honored with this year’s Chuck Van Der Kolk Volunteer of the Year Award.

Having grown up around construction, Weldon was drawn to a hands-on career he could relate to. In his early twenties, he applied for a position with Plainfield Township’s water department, where one of his first tasks was painting all 635 fire hydrants – each one, as he puts it, “up close and personal.”

Today, Weldon serves as Manager of Water Distribution for the township, playing an active leadership role across multiple councils and committees,  including the Education and Training Council, Distribution Practices Committee, and Competitions Committee.

On top of his commitment to these initiatives, Weldon has shared his expertise as a presenter at many events, such as the Joint Expo and Operators Day, UP Spring Water Conference, and the Gaylord Regional Seminar – even stepping in on less than 24 hours’ notice to fill a last-minute speaker spot.

Truthfully, Weldon’s eager desire to be a reliable volunteer is who he is.

“I have always been involved in some type of volunteerism either through my church or on my county fair board, even through fraternal organizations,” Weldon explained.

Weldon also added that his work as a volunteer has not only been tremendously rewarding, but also motivation for him to become even better.

“When the Operators Day committee gets the response report from evaluations letting us know how people liked the presenters and the overall program, it can make you feel good about what we did,” Weldon said. “That same report has also been a ‘kick in the pants’ to do better next year.”

Despite his behind-the-scenes nature, Weldon was both surprised and humbled when he learned he had received the award – especially given his personal connection to Chuck Van Der Kolk, the award’s namesake.

On the other hand, Weldon’s supervisor, Rick Solle, couldn’t be any less surprised.

“It made perfect sense as he has become very involved in numerous committees,” Solle said. “Matt has been a mentor to many in our industry, and this award is well deserved.”

With over forty years of experience in the industry, Weldon continues to encourage others to get involved in the work that has meant so much to him.

“With the effort that you put into Michigan Section AWWA, it will always give you back more,” Weldon said. “So, no matter how young or old you are, please volunteer.”

Weldon’s reliability, generosity, and dedication have made him a go-to resource and an inspiration throughout the Section. His leadership and selfless service make this recognition rightfully earned.

2023 Raymond J. Faust Award Recipient: Gary Wozniak, P.E.

The Michigan Section proudly recognized Gary Wozniak, P.E. as a 2023 recipient of the Raymond J. Faust Award, honoring outstanding personal service in the water supply field.

The Faust Award commemorates Raymond J. Faust for his contributions to safe public health engineering practices, the advancement of sound water supplies, and his dedication to building and promoting the waterworks industry of high esteem. In keeping with tradition, the award recipient was announced during MI-ACE.

A lifelong resident of Michigan, Gary is a graduate of Michigan Technological University, where he earned a Bachelor of Science degree in Environmental Engineering. He is a Michigan-licensed Professional Engineer with more than 30 years of experience in drinking water supply, including service as a state government regulator and as a utility engineer.

Gary holds S1, D2, and F3 Michigan waterworks system operator certifications, reflecting his deep technical expertise and commitment to operational excellence. He is currently employed by the Lansing Board of Water & Light, where he continues to support the delivery of safe and reliable drinking water.

An active and dedicated member of the Michigan Section – American Water Works Association, Gary served as Chair of the Michigan Section in 2024 and currently serves as Co-Chair of the Historical Preservation Committee. He is also deeply committed to education and workforce development, teaching 12-week courses  including Applied Hydraulics for Operators and Basic Chemistry for Water and Wastewater Operators.

Through decades of professional service, leadership, and education, Gary Wozniak exemplifies the values and legacy of the Raymond J. Faust Award. The Michigan Section thanks him for his continued dedication to protecting public health and strengthening the water profession.

The Michigan Section is proud to recognize John Willemin, P.E. as the 2025 recipient of the Michigan George Warren Fuller Award, the Section’s highest honor for sustained excellence and leadership in the water profession.

True to tradition, the Fuller Award recipient remained a closely guarded secret until the announcement during the Fuller Awards Luncheon at MI-ACE. As clues were read aloud—moving from broad accomplishments to defining milestones—attendees began to recognize a career marked by technical excellence, integrity, and service to the profession.

John earned both his bachelor’s and master’s degrees in civil engineering from Michigan Technological University and began his career in Wisconsin before returning to Michigan, where he has spent the past 28 years advancing water and wastewater infrastructure throughout the region. For 24 of those years, John has served with Fishbeck, where he is a Senior Vice President and Principal in Engineering, leading complex projects that emphasize safety, sustainability, and long-term performance.

Beyond his professional practice, John has demonstrated exceptional commitment to the water industry through service and leadership. He has served as Chair of the Michigan Section – American Water Works Association, participated in numerous committees, led the Strategic Partnerships Council, and contributed to policy development through the Government Affairs Council. He is also an active member of WEF and MWEA and spent six years on the Professional Advisory Board for the Department of Civil and Environmental Engineering at Michigan State University.

Licensed as a Professional Engineer in five states—Michigan, Indiana, Wisconsin, Ohio, and Kentucky—John’s influence extends across state lines and disciplines.

The Michigan Section congratulates John Willemin on this well-deserved honor and thanks him for his decades of dedication, leadership, and service to the water profession.

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