We had the good fortune of connecting with Anna Stewart and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Anna, what principle do you value most?
Having integrity is extremely important, because being truthful and transparent in what I say and do is the authentic me. Pretending to be someone your not only hurts yourself but other people as well.

Can you open up a bit about your work and career? We’re big fans and we’d love for our community to learn more about your work.
I’ve been with the Drowning Prevention Coalition of Palm Beach County for 20+ years. As a non-fatal drowning survivor (I almost drowned at 8yrs of age from chicken fighting), I can provide a unique perspective when discussing water safety to children, adults, and seniors. My working career has been an interesting one. My first real job was as a Crime Scene Investigator before it became popular by television, followed by being an academic advisor at an area university. I was fortunate enough to have a professor during my post graduate education who became a mentor. Through his guidance, support, and belief in my capabilities, I am professionally successful. Success isn’t about money or status (though it certainly is nice if you have it), but about being able to get up in the morning and enjoy going to work while truly making a difference in the lives of others.

If you had a friend visiting you, what are some of the local spots you’d want to take them around to?
Being in South Florida we are lucky enough to enjoy water related activities year-round! I would take my best friend to various cities in Palm Beach County that are located along the ocean/intracoastal. We would take a guided boat tour, do some jet skiing, snorkeling and scuba diving and perhaps even a walking or Segway excursion. I would also take my friend to some great animal rescue sanctuaries like the Loggerhead Marinelife Center and Busch Wildlife Sanctuary, and then to eat at some mom and pop restaurants.

Shoutout is all about shouting out others who you feel deserve additional recognition and exposure. Who would you like to shoutout?
What really started the ball rolling for me was when my mentor (a college professor), threw a job description on my desk and said, “you should apply for this job, it’s perfect for you”. Subsequently, I applied, got the job, then became a manager, and have been working for my organization for 20+ years.

Website: https://www.pbcgov.org/dpc

Instagram: dpcofpbc

Linkedin: Anna Stewart

Twitter: DrowingPrevention@PBCDPC

Nominate Someone: ShoutoutMiami is built on recommendations and shoutouts from the community; it’s how we uncover hidden gems, so if you or someone you know deserves recognition please let us know here.