PHTA Wraps Up 2020 Virtual Leadership Week with Optimism for 2021

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
November 20, 2020

Media Contact:
Janay Rickwalder, CAE
Vice President, Marketing and Communications
703-357-3918 | jrickwalder@phta.org

PHTA Wraps Up 2020 Virtual Leadership Week with Optimism for 2021

(Alexandria, Va.) - The Pool & Hot Tub Alliance hosted a Virtual Leadership Week November 16-20 to recap all the work the association accomplished in 2020 and plan ahead for 2021. During this exciting five-day event, 13 councils and committees consisting of more than 150 volunteer leaders met to discuss important issues for the pool and hot tub industry. These councils and committees worked together to develop goals for 2021 that support PHTA’s Strategic Plan to Educate, Advocate and Elevate pool and hot tub professionals.

“I was inspired to hear perspective from so many passionate volunteers,” said Franceen Gonzales, Chair, PHTA Board of Directors. “Each person is a leader in their own companies and yet dedicate their time to PHTA for the things they feel are most important. I for one am proud that PHTA is set up to provide these leaders this forum, have staff assigned to support them, and are initiating programs that align with the PHTA Strategic Plan. PHTA membership is diverse and yet committed to common goals. This week was proof of that solidarity.”

On Monday, November 16, a new leader orientation was held to acquaint newly selected volunteers and define their roles. Later that evening, PHTA hosted a Kick-Off Event, featuring speakers, a PHTA update and leadership videos. The session also included a fun networking opportunity—a live trivia contest where people were able to meet each other and compete in teams, bringing people together through the use of technology. Various councils and committees met throughout the week to discuss their achievements in 2020, critical issues impacting their businesses and objectives for 2021.

On Friday, November 20, PHTA wrapped up the event with an all-council/committee meeting designed to encourage cross-communication between all industry segments and with the board of directors.

“I am excited about what 2021 has in store for the pool and hot tub industry with our dedicated volunteer leaders,” said PHTA President and CEO Sabeena Hickman, CAE. “There is passion, vision and strong plans to deliver in the year ahead.”

With this successful event, PHTA proved that virtual sessions can be just as effective as in-person meetings. “Limited possibilities to meet in person doesn’t mean the hard work of our volunteer leaders ceases – this week proved that PHTA volunteers are dedicated to supporting not only the mission and vision of this organization but the pool and hot tub industry as a whole,” said Amy Cannon, Director of Councils & Chapters, PHTA.

For more information, please contact Janay Rickwalder, PHTA’s Vice President of Marketing and Communications, at jrickwalder@phta.org or 703.357.3918.

###

About the Pool & Hot Tub Alliance
The Pool & Hot Tub Alliance (PHTA), a non-profit organization with nearly 3,500 members from around the world, was established in 1956 to support, promote, and protect the common interests of the $36.5B pool, hot tub and spa industry. PHTA provides education, advocacy, standards development, research, and market growth to increase our members’ professionalism, knowledge and profitability. Additionally, PHTA facilitates the expansion of swimming, water safety and related research and outreach activities aimed at introducing more people to swimming, making swimming environments safer and keeping pools open to serve communities. For more information, visit www.phta.org.