Over the past three years, Vermont has made significant strides in advancing aquatic safety through statewide collaboration, education, and legislative action. This session will highlight the accomplishments of the Vermont Water Safety Action Committee and its efforts to strengthen water safety across the state. Participants will learn about resources for aquatic professionals and community members, the expansion of water safety education opportunities, and the successful passage of Vermont's Cold Water Lifejacket Law, which takes effect on November 1. The presentation will showcase how partnerships, advocacy, and education are creating a safer aquatic environment for all Vermonters.
Learning Objectives:
Understand the importance of connecting aquatic professionals and fostering collaboration to improve water safety initiatives across Vermont.
Identify key water safety education efforts that have increased awareness and provided valuable resources for communities throughout the state.
Describe the Cold Water Lifejacket Law, including its development, key requirements, and anticipated impact following its implementation on November 1.
Presenters:
Jess Lukas, Director of Aquatics, Greater Burlington YMCA
Jess Lukas began her YMCA career in White Plains, New York, where she discovered a passion for youth development, community engagement, and water safety that continues to guide her work today. Although raised with deep Vermont roots, Jess attended the University of New Hampshire and spent her summers working at Camp Greylock on Lake Champlain through the Greater Burlington YMCA.
Following positions with the Y in New York and later the Hockomock Area Y in Franklin, Massachusetts, Jess returned to Vermont, where she has lived in the Burlington and Winooski area for the past 16 years. She currently serves as Director of Aquatics at the Greater Burlington YMCA.
In this role, Jess leads a team of 75 full- and part-time staff members and oversees swim instruction for more than 300 participants each week. She is passionate about creating meaningful first-job opportunities for local high school students, teaching CPR and lifesaving skills, and building partnerships with organizations such as the Cities of Burlington and Winooski and the University of Vermont Medical Center to expand access to free community safety education programs.
Beyond her work at the YMCA, Jess is a recognized advocate for water safety across Vermont. She serves on the Executive Board of the Vermont Parks & Recreation Association, co-founded and co-chairs the Vermont Water Safety Action Committee through Safe Kids Vermont, and has been a member of the Leadership Champlain Board for five years, including two years as Board Chair.
Throughout her career, Jess has demonstrated a steadfast commitment to strengthening communities, developing future leaders, and expanding access to resources that improve safety and well-being across Vermont.