ISLA Medical Director Dr. Justin Sempsrott is Honored as Lifesaver Of The Year
Dr. Justin Sempsrott, a trailblazer in water safety and drowning prevention, earned the prestigious title of 2015 Lifesaver of the Year by the National Drowning Prevention Alliance (NDPA). This well-deserved recognition highlighted his significant contributions to lifesaving efforts worldwide and was secured through the enthusiastic support of ISLA’s global community, who cast an astounding 9,475 votes in his favor.
In a competitive field of nine finalists, Justin stood out not only for his medical expertise but also for his dedication to water safety, education, and innovation in lifesaving techniques. His impact has been felt by lifeguards, emergency responders, and families worldwide, making his recognition a milestone in his career.
A Lifelong Commitment to Saving Lives
Dr. Justin Sempsrott began his journey in lifesaving as an Ocean Lifeguard in 1996. His passion for water safety and medicine converged in his career, where he serves as the Medical Director for the International Surf Lifesaving Association (ISLA), Starfish Aquatics Institute, and as an Emergency Medicine and EMS Physician in North Carolina. Beyond these roles, Justin co-founded Lifeguards Without Borders, a nonprofit dedicated to reducing drowning incidents through global education, training, and advocacy.
Over the years, Justin has trained thousands of individuals, from healthcare professionals and military personnel to parents and lifeguards, sharing his expertise in drowning prevention and resuscitation. His engaging, data-driven presentations have set a new standard for drowning education, proving that saving lives starts with knowledge and preparation.
Transformative Impact Through Education
Dr. Sempsrott’s drowning lectures are renowned for their practical application and transformative impact. Attendees often credit his teaching with empowering them to save lives in critical moments. A standout example was documented in EMS World magazine, where a 75-year-old man drowned on an unguarded beach and was pronounced dead when emergency responders arrived. Thanks to a paramedic who had recently attended Justin’s lecture, the man was successfully resuscitated and reunited with his family just four days later.
Reflecting on the power of his lectures, Justin shared, “Through all of the presentations that I have done, I am most proud of the phone calls that I get days to years afterward from lifeguards, paramedics, doctors, and others saying that they had an actual drowning patient, and my lecture played back in their mind. They knew what to do and saved a life.”
Global Recognition for Lifesaving Leadership
The NDPA honor was more than a personal accolade for Dr. Sempsrott—it was a victory for ISLA’s mission to advance professional lifesaving development in underserved areas worldwide. By attending the NDPA Symposium in Phoenix, Arizona, Justin seized the opportunity to spotlight ISLA’s humanitarian efforts, discuss future projects, and forge connections with key stakeholders and potential sponsors.
The symposium also served as a platform to celebrate the collective efforts of ISLA supporters who rallied behind Justin’s nomination. Their votes were a testament to the global community’s commitment to lifesaving initiatives and the shared belief in Justin’s ability to inspire change.
The Legacy of Justin Sempsrott
Dr. Sempsrott’s influence extends far beyond his lectures and accolades. As a leader in drowning prevention, he has pioneered new approaches to lifesaving and has continually emphasized the importance of training and preparedness. His work with ISLA and Lifeguards Without Borders has equipped communities around the globe with the tools and knowledge necessary to prevent drowning incidents and respond effectively when they occur.
Justin’s contributions underscore a critical truth: drowning is preventable, but it requires a collaborative, informed effort to make a difference. From equipping Navy SEALs with advanced resuscitation techniques to empowering parents with lifesaving skills, Justin’s work demonstrates the universal importance of water safety education.
Join the Movement
Dr. Justin Sempsrott’s recognition as the 2015 Lifesaver of the Year is a reminder of the power of education, community support, and dedication to a cause. ISLA supporters worldwide played a pivotal role in amplifying his work, and their votes were a testament to the trust and admiration they hold for his expertise and leadership.
To learn more about Dr. Sempsrott’s lifesaving efforts and the broader mission of ISLA, explore our resources and join us in advancing global water safety. Together, we can build a future where drowning is no longer one of the leading causes of preventable deaths.
Thank you to everyone who voted, shared, and celebrated this achievement. Your support drives ISLA’s mission forward and honors the legacy of lifesavers like Dr. Justin Sempsrott.
Below is video of Dr. Justin Sempsrott drowning resuscitation lecture: