Nominations for the 2025 Boat Owners Association of The United States (BoatUS)/The National Women’s Sailing Association (NWSA) Leadership in Women’s Sailing Award are now open. Since 1999, the national award has sought to recognize an individual with a record of achievement in inspiring, educating and enriching the lives of women through sailing. Past recipients have included sailing instructors, writers, sailboat racers and cruisers, marine industry professionals and boating club leaders from a wide variety of professions.

The 2025 recipient will be announced at the Annual National Women’s Sailing Association Conference Luncheon in St. Petersburg, Fla. on June 7, 2025.

 “We are proud to recognize the contributions women have made to the sailing community and encouraging women’s participation in the sport,” said NWSA President Debby Grimm. “We seek to introduce more women to sailing — a lifetime sport and healthy lifestyle to share with others. Sailing teaches leadership skills, STEM skills, teambuilding and promotes enjoyment of nature and … responsibility. Both of our organizations help nurture the skills and sense of community to help sailors grow through their boating lives.”

The organizations are accepting nominations on their website through Feb. 1, 2025. Please email the awards committee with any questions.