Karen Clay: A Legacy of Leadership, Community, and Care
For more than three decades, Karen Clay has been a guiding force in aquatics education, youth development, and community-centered leadership. As the former owner of SwimWest Swim School, founder of Swim&Gym Summer Camp, and a nationally recognized leader in the swim school industry, Karen’s impact reaches far beyond the pool deck.
Karen owned and operated SwimWest Swim School for 32 years, building it into a trusted cornerstone of the Madison community. In 2022, she proudly sold the swim school, marking the close of one chapter and the continuation of a legacy rooted in safety, education, and genuine care for families and staff.
The Beginning of Swim&Gym Summer Camp
In 2003, Karen founded Swim&Gym Summer Camp with a simple but powerful vision: to create a summer experience where children could stay active, build confidence, and feel truly supported. What began as an extension of her commitment to youth development has grown into an award-winning camp serving generations of Madison families.
Swim&Gym’s emphasis on fun, fitness, friendships, and safety reflects Karen’s belief that camps and swim schools are about more than programs; they’re about people.
National Recognition & Industry Leadership
Karen’s dedication and leadership have been recognized at the highest levels. Over the years, she has received multiple honors, including:
- Lifetime Achievement Award
- Guiding Light Award
- Multiple Teacher Awards
- Athlena International
- Marketing Award of Excellence
She has also served on the Board of Directors for the United States Swim School Association (USSSA) three times, helping guide the direction of swim education nationwide.
As a national and international public speaker, Karen has shared her expertise on topics such as:
- Building strong community connections
- Safety in swim schools and camps
- Exceptional customer service
- Hiring and retaining engaging, high-quality staff
- Creating values-driven organizations rooted in care
The SwimWest Way
At the heart of Karen’s work is what many know as “The SwimWest Way,” a philosophy centered on caring for your team, your families, and your community. It’s a belief that when staff feel supported and valued, they create extraordinary experiences for children.
This philosophy continues to shape Swim&Gym Summer Camp today through leadership development, staff culture, and a deep commitment to doing what’s right for kids, families, and the community.
Beyond the Pool
Outside of her professional achievements, Karen is deeply involved in her community. She currently serves as the Treasurer of the Lakeshore Region Pony Club and enjoys spending time riding her thoroughbred horse, Snickers, a reflection of her lifelong love of learning, discipline, and connection.
A Lasting Impact on Madison Families
Karen Clay’s legacy is not measured only in awards or years of service, but in the countless children who learned confidence through movement, the staff members she mentored, and the families who trusted her programs year after year.
As Swim&Gym Summer Camp continues under the leadership of Kristina Bauer, Ethan Staley, and Karen Clay, Karen’s values remain at the heart of everything we do, ensuring that each summer is filled with care, purpose, and unforgettable memories.
