CUYAHOGA COUNTY, OH – Cuyahoga County is celebrating the one-year anniversary of the Fresh Water Institute, highlighting achievements that have strengthened water safety, workforce development, and regional leadership in Great Lakes innovation.

“In just one year, the Fresh Water Institute has made a meaningful difference in the lives of our residents,” said Cuyahoga County Executive Chris Ronayne. “We’re teaching children how to be safe around water, developing the next generation of freshwater experts, and creating a platform for regional collaboration. This work strengthens our connection to Lake Erie and positions Cuyahoga County as a leader in freshwater innovation and climate resilience.”

Executive Ronayne established the Fresh Water Institute in 2024 to catalyze our region’s culture of freshwater stewardship. The Cuyahoga County program is built on three pillars: education and research, advocacy and access, and economic development.

“The Fresh Water Institute is bringing sustainability and environmental health to life in very tangible ways. 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,” said Jenita McGowan, Cuyahoga County Deputy Chief of Staff, Climate and Sustainability.

The Fresh Water Institute’s first year accomplishments include:

Launching the Fresh Water Institute Fellowship: In partnership with Teaching Cleveland and Syatt, the fellowship welcomed its first cohort of 28 students from 17 area high schools.  This hands-on fellowship provides students with a greater understanding of the Great Lakes and water careers. The program is building a robust pipeline of future freshwater leaders. A new cohort of high school students will onboard in January.

Expanding Swim Safety Program: Cuyahoga County contracted with AquaMissions to expand its water safety instruction program in partnership with Cleveland State University. To date, the program has reached 1,425 Cleveland Metropolitan and Warrensville Heights School District students – providing swim gear, transportation, and introductory water experiences. This initiative aims to reduce drowning risks, increase water confidence, and make safe water access more equitable throughout the region.

Providing Water-Related Internships: The Fresh Water Institute leveraged partnerships across sectors to grow our region’s water economy, with a specific focus on job training and internships. In partnership with the Student Conservation Association, we created paid internship opportunities for three young adults as well as networking and training opportunities for young professionals working in water.

10,000+ Individuals Engaged: From community events to deep dive conversations, the Fresh Water Institute engaged more than 10,000 individuals in educational programming this year.

Hosting Fresh Water Forums: To deepen public dialogue and expert collaboration, we hosted two Fresh Water Forums during its first year. These events brought together policymakers, business leaders, nonprofit organizations, and students to discuss the challenges and opportunities facing Lake Erie and the broader Great Lakes region.

Connecting County Leaders Across the Great Lakes: In July, the National Association of Counties established the Great Lakes Regional Forum and appointed Executive Ronayne as Chair. In this role, Executive Ronayne and the Fresh Water Institute are working with leaders at all levels of government to support healthy and protected waterways and a thriving economy.

“The engagement we’ve seen in our first year has been outstanding,” said Emily Bacha, Program Director for the Cuyahoga County Fresh Water Institute. “Students are enthusiastic about programming and partners throughout the region are eager to collaborate. We’re proud of our achievements to date and excited to build on this momentum heading into the new year.”

View the Fresh Water Institute’s 2025 Year in Review

For more information about the Fresh Water Institute, visit cuyahogacounty.gov/freshwater.