The Dr. Bill Kent Chairman's Award

The International Swimming Hall of Fame is proud to introduce The Dr. Bill Kent Chairman’s Award, a prestigious new award that recognizes individuals who have demonstrated extraordinary dedication, leadership, and service to the Hall of Fame, water safety, and the aquatics world.  Awarded only on rare occasions to maintain its distinction, The Chairman’s Award celebrates the lifelong achievements and unparalleled contributions of those who exemplify the values and mission of the International Swimming Hall of Fame.

The first recipient of this award is Dr. Bill Kent, whose life’s work has been a beacon of positive transformation for Fort Lauderdale and beyond.

Honoring Dr. William Kent:  A Lifetime of Leadership and Service  

Dr. Bill Kent’s remarkable career spans over five decades, marked by a visionary dedication to safety, community, and innovation in the aquatic industry.

 * A Champion of Youth Safety and Aquatic Education: Dr. Kent’s advocacy for youth drowning prevention has set a new national standard. His groundbreaking Every Child a Swimmer program, which offers free swimming lessons to underserved children, has impacted countless lives. This program, passed by the Florida legislature and now adopted in several other states, aims to make swimming a universal life skill, with over 600 children reached so far and many more to come.

* A Vision for the International Swimming Hall of Fame: Under Dr. Kent’s leadership as Chairman of the Board, ISHOF has embarked on a $221 million renovation, transforming it into a world-class attraction featuring a state-of-the-art aquarium, museum, and public spaces. His vision has ensured that ISHOF will continue to inspire future generations and contribute to Fort Lauderdale’s cultural and economic vitality.

* A Legacy of Recognition: Dr. Kent’s contributions have been celebrated by his community and around the globe. Named Philanthropist of the Year by the Florida Swimming Pool Association and recognized as one of the “10 Most Impactful People” by Swimming World Magazine, Dr. Kent’s dedication to service, innovation, and safety has established a legacy of enduring impact.

Dr. Bill Kent is a model of leadership, philanthropy, and commitment to a better future for all, making him the ideal inaugural recipient of the Dr. Bill Kent Chairman’s Award. His contributions will forever inspire ISHOF and the aquatics community he has so deeply enriched.

As an added note, after this first inaugural presentation, this award will forever be known as the Dr. Bill Kent Chairman’s Award.