Underwatertimes.com News Service - December 19, 2011 22:31 EST

Everyone has the ability to make a difference every day, but there are those who go so far above and beyond the call their contributions have far-reaching effects and influence the ways things are done. Do you know someone like that whose contributions have significantly impacted dive safety? If so, tell DAN about it, because nominations for the 2012 DAN/Rolex Diver of the Year Award are now being accepted.

Now in its 24th year, the DAN/Rolex Diver of the Year Award is given each year to an individual who has contributed significantly to recreational dive safety or the mission of DAN, either regionally or nationally. Although many past winners have been noted industry professionals, the nominations are open to divers of all levels as well as nondivers. The important criteria are not their area of expertise or experience level; the focus of the award is on the impact of their work.

"This is an extremely rewarding time of year for us," said Dan Orr, president of DAN. "It's always inspiring to read the nominations. It's a testament to those who have worked hard to support DAN or make diving safer for everyone."

Winners of the DAN/Rolex Diver of the Year Award receive a specially engraved Rolex Submariner dive watch along with a commemorative plaque. The award ceremony will take place at Beneath the Sea in March 2012.

If you would like to submit a nomination, simply send a brief description of the individual's merits and contributions to DAN or dive safety to Jaclyn Messersmith via email at jmessersmith@dan.org. Nominations can also be sent via traditional mail to Messersmith c/o DAN/Rolex Award, Divers Alert Network, 6 West Colony Place, Durham, NC 27705.

All nominations must be received no later than Jan. 15, 2012.