Get to Know the CASA Staff: Adam Link
Adam Link has been with CASA for more than a decade and throughout that time has worked to ensure that CASA fulfills its mission of providing trusted information and advocacy on behalf of California clean water agencies. He took over as Executive Director in 2020, and previously served as both Director of Government Affairs and Manager of Legal and Regulatory Affairs for the association, helping guide CASA’s full portfolio of regulatory, legislative, and legal issues. Prior to joining CASA in 2013, Adam practiced law at Somach, Simmons and Dunn, specializing in water quality, environmental, and local government issues. He also previously worked in the California Legislature and at the business consulting firm Accenture. Adam earned his degrees from the University of California, Santa Barbara, and the University of the Pacific, McGeorge School of Law.

Adam beyond the office:

  • If you could only eat one cuisine for the rest of your life, what would it be? Tough choice between Japanese and Italian. I love sushi, but nothing can compare to a fresh pasta dish or homemade pizza. I probably couldn’t go without those!
  • What do you like to do to relax and unwind? I like to golf and play tennis when I can, and watch my hometown Kings and SF Giants. I don’t watch too many TV shows, but when there is something good out I can definitely get behind binge watching the whole series! Also, I am not sure if it qualifies as “relaxing”, but my wife and I have remodeled two homes in recent years, so a lot of home improvement projects have filled my free time.
  • What is your favorite movie of all time and why? The Big Lebowski. Probably the most quotable movie of all time, exceptionally memorable characters, always entertaining. In a high stress world, everyone should aspire to make some room for a little more “Dude” philosophy in their life.
  • What is one skill you’ve always wanted to learn? I have always wanted to get my pilot’s license. I got my NAUI scuba certification in college, and my ASA certification for sailing a few years ago. I would love to add a pilots license to that list, and maybe motorcycle license someday.

 

CASA Annual Conference
CASA is pleased to announce that we will be hosting our Annual Conference on July 31 – August 2 in Monterey at the Monterey Marriott! The theme of this year’s Annual Conference is Empowering Through Collaboration. Our program will feature speakers and panels that focus on giving our agencies the tools for success, and working together to achieve shared goals. We will also feature three different tracks this year with opportunities for high-level policy discussions as well as deep technical dives, and some excellent networking opportunities as well! As always, our committee leaders and subject matter experts will be on hand to provide all the latest information on legislative and regulatory proposals that will impact your agency. Registration and hotel information can be found here. We look forward to seeing you there!

 

Deadline Approaching! Apply for CASA’s Award of Excellence by April 30
As the deadline approaches in just two weeks, it’s time to highlight your organization’s commitment to doing what’s right for California. The recognition from the leading clean water association is a testament to your hard work and achievements, symbolizing respect, credibility, and innovation. CASA is on the lookout to honor members who excel in providing essential public services and go the extra mile to safeguard public health and the environment. We urge all member agencies and associates to seize this opportunity by submitting an Award of Excellence application before Tuesday, April 30, 2024. The recipients will be unveiled and celebrated during CASA’s Annual Conference in Monterey this August. For further details regarding the award criteria and categories, please visit the Awards Program Webpage.

Let’s celebrate your excellence together!

 

CASA Education Foundation Scholarship Applications
The CASA Education Foundation helps ensure clean water for Californians and energize the future of the clean water sector by awarding scholarships to promising students on a path to serving the environmental community. Does your local college or university know about CASA’s financial aid to students interested in a career in water? Be sure to share this flyer in your local community! The Foundation is accepting scholarship applications through May 17, 2024. For information on how to apply, who is eligible and the scholarship guidelines, visit the website.