LANCASTER, PA — In recognition of his lifelong dedication to clean air advocacy, Lancaster resident Kevin Stewart was recently bestowed the 2024 Hoyt E. Dearholt Distinguished Professional Service Award by the American Lung Association. This national accolade, the highest commendation achievable by a staff member, is given annually to an individual who has significantly contributed to the Association’s mission throughout their tenure.
Currently, Stewart holds the position of National Director of Environmental Health for Advocacy and Public Policy at the American Lung Association; in this role, Stewart has been an influential advocate for informing the public about the dangers, sources, and potential control of air pollution. Since joining the American Lung Association in 1987, Stewart has ascended through various roles, starting with environmental and occupational health in a local Lancaster County affiliate, to his current national leadership position.
Over his nearly four-decade career, Stewart’s dedication to promoting healthy lungs and eradicating lung disease has not only amplified the Association’s cause but also led directly to the creation of their renowned nationwide healthy air program. “[Kevin’s] invaluable contributions to raising awareness about indoor and outdoor air quality have been instrumental in our progress,” stated Deb Brown, Chief Mission Officer of the American Lung Association.
In addition to his role within the Association, Stewart collaborates with an array of public health and environmental organizations to shape policy and regulations around air quality. Perhaps Stewart’s most recognized work is the annual “State of the Air” report, a highly anticipated publication that appraises national and regional air quality, bringing attention to the challenges and victories in air pollution control.
Stewart’s advocacy extends to testifying before federal, state, and local agencies about clean indoor and outdoor air quality and climate change. His sphere of influence broadens to a wide array of subjects, including radon awareness, energy policies, and enhancing public awareness about environmental and public health dangers.
A pivotal figurehead in the American Lung Association’s leadership, Stewart’s work has played a vital role in addressing the public health threat posed by radon gas exposure. His influence was crucial in developing the U.S. National Radon Action Plan and continues through his service on several boards and committees dedicated to radon and indoor air quality.
Stewart, a Lancaster Catholic High School graduate and Princeton University alum, currently resides in Lancaster, PA, with his wife, Rose. His hometown’s community, and the nation as a whole, continue to benefit from his diligent work in the fight for cleaner air and the eradication of lung disease.
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