Cuyahoga County is marking the one-year milestone of the Fresh Water Institute with a nod to the key achievements that have bolstered water security, workforce preparedness, and placed the region at the forefront of Great Lakes innovations. County Executive Chris Ronayne praised the institute's impact on community welfare, saying, "In just one year, the Fresh Water Institute has made a meaningful difference in lives of our residents," as reported by Cuyahoga County News.
Ronayne, who was instrumental in establishing the Fresh Water Institute in 2024, described the initiative's tripartite foundation, which includes education and research, advocacy and access, as well as economic development. Jenita McGowan, Cuyahoga County's Deputy Chief of Staff for Climate and Sustainability, reflected on the tangible outcomes of the institute's efforts, telling Cuyahoga County News, "Whether it is helping kids feel confident around the water, training emerging professionals, or hosting important conversations about the future of our water, this first year demonstrates how intentional investment and partnerships can drive meaningful change for our region."
Among the institute’s highlighted achievements in its inaugural year are the launch of the Fresh Water Institute Fellowship, which has welcomed 28 students from 17 area high schools in partnership with Teaching Cleveland and Syatt, and the expansion of the Swim Safety Program that reached 1,425 students in the Cleveland Metropolitan and Warrensville Heights School Districts. In terms of fostering economic growth, the institute has created paid internships for three young adults in collaboration with the Student Conservation Association and drew in more than 10,000 individuals in educational programming. Additionally, Fresh Water Forums have been conducted to facilitate dialogue among experts, students, and leaders on the subject of Lake Erie and its future.
The impact of this initiative extends beyond local boundaries, with Executive Ronayne being appointed as Chair of the National Association of Counties' Great Lakes Regional Forum in July. As chair, Ronayne is tasked with connecting county leaders to promote waterway health and economic vigor. Emily Bacha, Program Director for the Cuyahoga County Fresh Water Institute, expressed her enthusiasm, stating to Cuyahoga County News, "The engagement we’ve seen in our first year has been outstanding." She continued, speaking on the collective excitement for future endeavors, "We’re proud of our achievements to date and excited to build on this momentum heading into the new year."
