Fort Wayne Parks and Recreation is thrilled to announce that Jeff Ellis and Associates has recognized one of the lifeguards at Northside Pool on an unannounced inspection visit earlier this week.
Fort Wayne Parks and Recreation news release:
Fort Wayne Parks and Recreation Head Lifeguard Recognized
Fort Wayne, Indiana (July 24, 2026) – Fort Wayne Parks and Recreation is thrilled to announce that Jeff Ellis & Associates (E&A) has recognized one of the lifeguards at Northside Pool on an unannounced inspection visit earlier this week. Head lifeguard Kenley Garman is the first ever Fort Wayne Parks and Recreation recipient of a “Golden Guard” award from E&A, an International Aquatic Safety and Risk Management Consulting firm.
According to E&A, the Golden Guard is an elite safety award presented by the group to lifeguards who achieve near-perfect marks during unannounced safety audits. Awarded to less than 1% of the roughly 40,000 lifeguards they evaluate worldwide, it honors exceptional vigilance, professionalism and rescue readiness.
Garman is serving in her third year with Fort Wayne Parks and Recreation and was promoted in 2026 to a “Head Lifeguard” position. She acknowledges the entire team effort to remain safe and vigilant at the pool.
This recognition reflects the commitment to a culture of safety at Fort Wayne Parks and Recreation pool which has consistently achieved recognition from Ellis for rigorous safety protocols and operational excellence. Both of Parks’ unannounced audits in 2026 received “Exceeds” over scores.
“Safety is always our top priority when it comes to providing pool facilities,” said Parks and Recreation Director Steve McDaniel. “Of course, we want everyone to have a great time when swimming in one of our area pools, but we take great pride in our staff’s dedication to keeping everyone safe while they have fun. Congratulations to Kenley Garman and to the aquatics team under the training of Aquatic Supervisor Jessica Witt, a 31-year aquatics professional who coaches our lifeguards to the highest standards.”
Founded in 1983, Jeff Ellis & Associates, Inc. (E&A) is an International Aquatic Safety and Risk Management Consulting firm dedicated to the prevention and elimination of drowning.
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