Leslie Donavan becomes an MLC Honorary Life Member

Mediterranean 24.04.2024. The Mediterranean Lifesaving Confederation (MLC) proudly announces that the President of the International Federation of Swimming Teachers’ Association, Leslie Donavan (USA), became an MLC Honorary Life Member.

Leslie Donavan is the President and CEO of the Starfish Aquatics Institute (SAI), a global publisher of educational programs in the field of aquatics and certification agency for swimming instructors and pool operators based in the United States. Leslie has overseen the growth of SAI to an international powerhouse in aquatic safety and drowning prevention, and currently serves as the President of the International Federation of Swim Teachers’ Association (IFSTA) where SAI represents the United States. As an attorney, Leslie served as the Volunteer Brand Protection Manager for the winter Olympics held in Salt Lake City in 2002. She currently serves on the Executive Committee of the Aquatics Coalition in the United States, and is a charter member of the Global Drowning Prevention and Water Safety Rotary Club. Most recently, Leslie served on an international panel speaking on World Wide Trends in Swim Education at the Swim Coaches & Teachers Australia SwimCon23 in Broadbeach, Australia. 

Donavan, commented about his recognition: "President Giorgio Quintavalle, Secretary General Dr. Stathis Avramidis and esteemed members of the Mediterranean Lifesaving Confederation, it is with great pleasure that I humbly accept the Mediterranean Lifesaving Confederation (MLC) Honorary Life Membership. As a passionate advocate of water safety, I support the work of the MLC to promote lifesaving sport within the Mediterranean Basin. By adding aquatic safety to the Games where lifesaving sport is recognized, the MLC is improving the status of drowning prevention and drawing attention to the need for aquatic risk management. I look forward to working with the MLC to continue its important work as an umbrella organization for everyone in the Mediterranean Sea basin promoting lifesaving sport and water safety!"

The MLC President, Giorgio Quintavalle and the MLC Secretary General, Dr Stathis Avramidis, said on this occasion: “Leslie Donavan is an experienced, sirene and developmental comrade that strives for excellence in swimming and water safety. She has very many years of experience. She strives constantly for the extra mile that will bring innovatative actions that may make a difference, by enhancing the wellbeing of the society and saving lives. It is a true pleasure to work, plan and dream together with Leslie because she leads by example and kindness!”