Rose Bowl Aquatics Center Director Appointed to California Water Safety Coalition Board

Cristina Alvarado joins statewide effort to advance drowning prevention and water safety education

Published on Feb. 10, 2026

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Cristina Alvarado, Director of Programming at the Rose Bowl Aquatics Center in Pasadena, California, has been appointed to the Board of Directors of the California Water Safety Coalition. Alvarado will work with the coalition to expand access to life-saving water safety education and advance statewide drowning prevention efforts.

Why it matters

The appointment of Alvarado, an experienced water safety expert, to the CWSC Board strengthens the connection between local, community-driven aquatic programs and statewide drowning prevention strategy. Her leadership will help ensure local perspectives are represented in these important statewide initiatives.

The details

As Director of Programming at the Rose Bowl Aquatics Center, Alvarado oversees a wide range of community-focused aquatic programs, including swim lessons, youth development initiatives, and access-based programming designed to reduce barriers to participation. Her appointment to the CWSC Board comes during a period of organizational transition and growth for the coalition.

  • Alvarado was appointed to the CWSC Board on February 10, 2026.
  • The California Water Safety Summit, hosted by the CWSC, will be held on April 14-15, 2026 in Sacramento.

The players

Cristina Alvarado

Director of Programming at the Rose Bowl Aquatics Center in Pasadena, California.

California Water Safety Coalition (CWSC)

A coalition that brings together public agencies, nonprofits, researchers, and aquatic professionals to connect, convene, and coordinate water safety efforts across California.

Rose Bowl Aquatics Center (RBAC)

A community aquatic center located in Pasadena, California that offers a wide range of programs focused on water safety, equity, and community health.

Melanie Sauer

Executive Director of the Rose Bowl Aquatics Center.

Julie Lopiccolo

Interim Chair of the California Water Safety Coalition.

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What they’re saying

“I'm honored to join the California Water Safety Coalition Board at such a pivotal time. Water safety is a shared responsibility, and I'm proud to represent Pasadena and the Rose Bowl Aquatics Center while collaborating with partners across the state to expand access, education, and prevention efforts that save lives.”

— Cristina Alvarado, Director of Programming, Rose Bowl Aquatics Center

“We are proud to see Cristina recognized for her leadership and impact as a water safety expert. Her work reflects RBAC's long standing commitment to water safety, equity, and community health. Her voice on the CWSC Board will help ensure local perspectives are represented in statewide efforts.”

— Melanie Sauer, Executive Director, Rose Bowl Aquatics Center

What’s next

The California Water Safety Coalition is preparing for the 2026 California Water Safety Summit, to be held April 14–15 in Sacramento in partnership with the California Department of Public Health and California State Parks.

The takeaway

Cristina Alvarado's appointment to the California Water Safety Coalition Board strengthens the connection between local, community-driven aquatic programs and statewide drowning prevention strategy, ensuring that local perspectives are represented in these important initiatives to expand access to life-saving water safety education.