Lorene Bruns, Duperon National Sales Manager, returns from the Michigan Water Environment Association’s annual meeting at Boyne Mountain Resort as a new inductee to the Select Society of Sanitary Sludge Shovelers (5-S). Selection to membership of the 5-S is recognition of "Outstanding, meritorious service above and beyond the call of duty” in relation to the water environment industry.

Michigan Water Environment Association (MWEA), established in 1925, is one of Michigan's oldest organizations, representing more than 2,000 water quality professionals statewide who are dedicated to preserving, restoring and enhancing Michigan's water resources. MWEA is a member association of the Water Environment Federation (WEF), an international, not-for-profit technical and educational organization of 34,000 individual members and 75 affiliated Member Associations representing water quality professionals around the world.

Every year, peers from each Member Association select a few candidates to receive the 5-S distinction based on merit. Along with the prestige of joining an international group of elite water professionals, Bruns will receive a golden shovel pin; the 5-S signature badge to distinguish her expertise and dedication to the industry. 

“Lorene was nominated for the Select Society of Sanitary Sludge Shovelers (5-S) because during her membership, she has been actively engaged in supporting a number of MWEA committees and activities,” said Michael Harvey, P.E., 5-S Influent Integrator. “Most recently she had been very involved with the fundraising activities of Water for People, a charity which promotes clean water and sanitation worldwide.”

“It is almost hard to fathom, given the caliber of people considered each year,” said Bruns. “Humbling ... I am very honored to join this group of industry leaders.”