Louis Newton Saslaw

Early Life and Education

Born in Columbus, Ohio, in 1953, Louis graduated as valedictorian of North High School in 1971. He earned his Bachelor of Arts from the University of Michigan in 1975, then pursued a Master of Public Administration at The Ohio State University from 1977 to 1978, studying administration, organizational management, and public policy.

A Diagnosis That Shaped a Mission

At 13, Louis Saslaw was diagnosed with Type 1 diabetes. In the 1960s, managing the condition took constant attention and discipline, without the glucose monitoring tools patients rely on today. Rather than treat it only as an obstacle, he built its management into everyday life.

The experience gave him a clear view of what other young people with diabetes face, especially the feeling of being different or isolated. That perspective became the motivation for much of his later work.

Building Programs for Children With Diabetes

Louis helped establish the first summer camp in Central Ohio for children ages seven through seventeen with diabetes. Campers enjoyed a traditional camp experience while learning to manage their condition alongside peers who understood. He spent eight years as a counselor and educator and three more as Camp Director.

Seeing a need for year-round support, he proposed the Central Ohio Diabetes Association’s first full-time Youth Director position and offered to raise the money to fund it. His fundraising succeeded, expanding services for children and families across the region.

Founding the Ohio Swim for Diabetes

In 1976, Louis founded the Ohio Swim for Diabetes. What began as a community fundraiser grew into the organization’s largest annual event, supporting diabetes education, research, and youth programs, including the camp at the center of his own advocacy. Decades later, it remains one of the most visible parts of his legacy.

A Career in Healthcare and Nonprofit Leadership

Lou Saslaw worked with the Central Ohio Diabetes Association from 1975 to 1978, the American Diabetes Association from 1978 to 1980, and the Ohio State Medical Association from 1981 to 1985. These roles sharpened his skills in strategic planning, fundraising, communication, and turning an organization’s mission into practical services.

Recognized for Five Decades With Type 1 Diabetes

Louis received the Joslin Clinic Longevity Award, which honors people who have lived with insulin-dependent diabetes for 50 years or longer. The recognition is tied to research into long-term Type 1 diabetes, giving him one more way to contribute to a cause that has been part of his life since adolescence.

From Nonprofit Work to Real Estate

With an eye on his family’s long-term financial future, Louis earned his real estate license in 1979 and his broker’s license in 1987. He spent nine years with M/I Homes in sales and sales management, building expertise in negotiation, market analysis, customer service, and team leadership.

He then founded Saslaw Enterprises, a diversified real estate business focused on buying, selling, renovating, leasing, and managing investment properties, with an emphasis on long-term value over short-term wins.