Secretary
Stu Kaplan’s journey with the Jones Beach Lifeguards began at the young age of 9, introduced by his two older brothers who were already proud members of this elite corps. In 1974, Stu officially joined the ranks and has remained an active and dedicated lifeguard for over 50 years.
A Syosset native, Stu graduated from SUNY Oneonta, where he was a four-year collegiate swimmer and met his wife, Lisa. Together they have two daughters and two grandsons. Professionally, Stu has worn many hats—working in corporate America, contributing to the family business, and ultimately becoming the sales manager for a large distribution company. Throughout it all, his passion for lifeguarding and serving others never wavered.
Stu has been a consistent force in the local union, involved in various roles throughout his tenure. One of the most rewarding aspects of his lifeguarding career has been the deep, lifelong relationships he’s formed—bonds that helped inspire the founding of the Jones Beach Lifeguard Association (JBLA) alongside four fellow longtime members, all of whom he’s known for over three decades.
His contributions to the JBLC and JBLA are numerous and impactful. Stu developed and implemented a specialized training program to help lifeguards transition from still-water environments to the challenging oceanfront. He has worked with the Long Island Community Fund, supporting scholarship distribution to deserving Jones Beach Lifeguards. Notably, Stu spearheaded the creation of the Captain William F. Burke Jr. Monument at RM III, honoring the heroic legacy of Captain Burke—affectionately known as Billy—who made the ultimate sacrifice on 9/11.
Stu’s lifelong commitment to the Jones Beach Lifeguard Corps has shaped not only his life, but also the lives of countless others, and continues to guide his leadership and service through the JBLA.