In Memoriam of SWANA’s First President, Lanny M. Hickman
September 4, 2024 — It is with deep sadness that the Solid Waste Association of North America (SWANA) recognizes the passing of Lanny M. Hickman, P.E., BCEE, the first SWANA CEO and president. Lanny was one of the founding members of Governmental Refuse Collection and Disposal Association (GRCDA), which eventually became SWANA. Lanny was preceded by his wife, Kay Hickman, who passed away in February. The couple was dedicated to SWANA and instrumental in the organization’s accomplishments and service to the field over the years.
As SWANA’s first executive director, Lanny served in the role from 1978 through 1996, establishing its strategic direction and growing the association. Lanny led the renaming and rebranding from GRCDA to SWANA in the early 1990s.
In addition to his leadership at SWANA, Lanny had an impactful career. Prior to joining SWANA, he worked at the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) when it first established as a government entity. During his time with the EPA, he played a key role in the development of the Resource Conservation and Recovery Act (RCRA).
In 1997, Lanny was inducted into the SWANA Landfill Gas Management Division Hall of Flame in recognition of his support and funding of annual Landfill Gas conferences, training programs, and publications.
With Lanny’s guidance, SWANA became a national member of the International Solid Waste Association (ISWA). He played an active role in ISWA and helped lead the effort to update and improve the ISWA Statutes, which resulted in the creation of the ISWA Internal Regulations.
Upon Lanny’s retirement from SWANA in 1996, the Hickman Endowment was established to honor Lanny and Kay’s contributions to the organization. The Hickman Endowment supports three SWANA programs that guide young professionals interested in the waste and resource management sector: The Hickman Internship Program, the SWANA National Solid Waste Design Competition, and numerous industry research projects.
“A wonderful way to honor Lanny and all he did for SWANA and our industry is to make a contribution to the SWANA Hickman Endowment and Internship Program,” says Amy Lestition Burke, SWANA’s executive director and CEO. “The Foundation’s work in developing emerging professionals in our sector will continue with the enthusiasm and dedication that inspired everything Lanny did throughout his life and career.”
If you would like to make a contribution, please send a check payable to “SWANA Hickman Endowment” to: SWANA Hickman Endowment, 8484 Georgia Avenue, Suite 230, Silver Spring, MD 20910.
