USA Swimming Foundation Elects Anne Berry as Chair
The USA Swimming Foundation has made significant strides in its leadership with the recent election of Anne Berry as the Chair of the Board of Directors, marking a pivotal moment for the organization. Berry’s appointment comes along with the addition of four new board members and the re-election of six incumbents, setting the stage for a robust and dynamic philanthropic strategy aimed at expanding access to swimming across the nation.
A Lifelong Dedication to Swimming
Anne Berry’s journey in swimming is nothing short of inspiring. With over 20 years of leadership experience spanning corporate and government arenas, Berry has been actively involved in the sport at multiple levels. Whether as an athlete, a coach, or a Masters swimmer, her commitment to water safety and learn-to-swim programs for children showcases her passion for the sport. She will serve as Chair from January 1, 2026, to December 31, 2029, succeeding David Shackley, who has enhanced the Foundation’s visibility and donor relations during his tenure.
Acknowledging Past Leadership
David Shackley’s leadership has left a lasting impact on the Foundation. His efforts to strengthen relationships with donors and support programs benefiting athletes and communities reflect a dedication that will not soon be forgotten. Shackley’s approach has set a solid foundation for his successor, allowing Berry to step into her role with a wealth of institutional knowledge.
A Strong Board of Directors
In addition to Berry, the Foundation welcomes four new members to the Board of Directors:
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Deirdre Clute brings her expertise in fundraising and organizational growth, along with a history as the captain of the Harvard swimming team and an active Masters swimmer.
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Brendan Donohue, a veteran sports executive and former NBA 2K League Board Chair, contributes his extensive experience in board governance and philanthropic development while being an enthusiastic swimmer and triathlete.
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Ethan Hallowell, currently with RedBird Capital Partners, adds insight from his background in global sports and philanthropic efforts related to poverty reduction and conservation.
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Brian Rodde, managing partner at Makena Capital, has a rich history in private equity and real estate, not to mention his accolades as a former NCAA champion and captain of the Stanford swimming team.
These individuals bring with them not only professional skill sets but also strong ties to the swimming community, which will enhance the Foundation’s reach and impact.
Continuity with Incumbent Members
The re-election of six incumbent board members ensures the continuity of leadership and experience. These returning members are:
- Alex Blavatnik
- John Enquist, Sr.
- Kyle Jackson
- Cullen Jones, OLY
- Scott Rosman
- David Shackley
Their ongoing commitment to the Foundation plays a crucial role in maintaining stability and fostering the organization’s mission.
Vision for the Future
In her new role, Berry expresses her enthusiasm about leading during a critical period for the Foundation. She emphasizes the importance of supporting the National Team leading into upcoming events, while also underscoring her commitment to making swimming accessible to all. Berry’s mantra, that swimming is a skill for everyone, resonates deeply as she looks to expand the Foundation’s initiatives, particularly in educating children and adults about water safety.
Philanthropic Focus
The strategic oversight provided by the USA Swimming Foundation Board is pivotal in guiding philanthropic efforts. The Foundation is committed to initiatives such as the Learn to Swim Grant Program, which is central to promoting water safety and increasing participation in the sport across the country.
For anyone interested in learning more about the USA Swimming Foundation’s endeavors and how they can contribute or benefit from its programs, the Foundation’s website offers comprehensive resources and information.