The American Fire Sprinkler Association (AFSA) is pleased to announce that Leslie Clounts has been named vice president of meetings and events. Clounts will transition from vice president of education services to this new role effective Sept. 15, 2026.

“Please join me in congratulating Leslie!” said AFSA President Bob Caputo, CFPS. “While not stepping completely away from the education services group, Leslie will be responsible for and the face of AFSA’s convention and quarterly meetings, and she will continue to be part of AFSA’s leadership team. Since joining the AFSA staff over 30 years ago, Leslie’s intelligence, positive attitude, and willingness to take on challenges have led her to manage seminars and eventually to serve as director of our educational services department. Two years ago, her efforts and energy earned her a promotion to vice president, educational services, but her contributions to the organization and our members go way beyond that title and her department.”

As vice president of meetings and events, Clounts will lead the planning and execution of the organization's major meetings and events, including AFSA’s annual convention, exhibition, and apprentice competition, as well as board and committee meetings.

“I’m excited to take on this new role and bring my experience, relationships, and passion for AFSA to this important area of our organization,” Clounts said. “Our meetings and events are some of the most visible and valuable ways we connect our members, industry partners, and future leaders, and I’m looking forward to building on that success. After three decades with the association, I’m especially energized by the opportunity to learn, create, and contribute in a new way while continuing to serve the members and industry I care deeply about.”

Clounts brings 30 years of experience with AFSA and extensive knowledge of the association and fire protection industry. Since joining AFSA in 1996, she has held roles spanning apprenticeship, seminars, chapter relations, continuing education, content development, and collaboration with numerous task groups, committees, and staff. Named vice president in 2024, Clounts continues to expand her knowledge and experience with all things AFSA and within the fire protection industry.