The National Women’s Sailing Association (NWSA) has opened nominations for the 2027 BoatUS/NWSA Leadership in Women’s Sailing Award, which is co-sponsored by the Boat Owners Association of The United States (BoatUS) and the National Women’s Sailing Association.

Since 1999, the national award has sought to recognize an individual from the United States 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 backgrounds.

“For more than 25 years, BoatUS has been proud to co-sponsor the National Women’s Sailing Association’s annual awards program, recognizing the remarkable women who are shaping the future of sailing through leadership, mentorship, competition, and service,” said Heather Lougheed, vice president of BoatUS Association.

Nominations are being accepted at the NWSA website linked here through February 1, 2027. The recipient will be announced at the June 2027 NWSA Women’s Sailing Conference in Boston, Mass. Questions may be sent to leadership@womensailing.org.

“We are proud to recognize an individual who has significantly impacted women’s sailing through their contributions to the sailing community and sport,” said NWSA President, Debby Grimm.

Grimm added, “We seek to introduce more women to sailing, a lifetime sport and healthy lifestyle to share with others. Sailing teaches leadership, S.T.E.M. skills, team building and promotes enjoyment of nature and responsibility. Both our organizations help nurture the skills and sense of community to help sailors grow throughout their boating lives.”

The 2026 honoree was Karen Prioleau, a lifelong educator who has inspired women to further their maritime education. After more than two decades at Orange Coast College, including skippering the Alaska Eagle, she saw her female class attendance grow from zero to 40% female. Her instruction at US Sailing’s Safety at Sea programs and training for other ocean cruising and racing organizations has reached many sailors of all ages. To read about previous Leadership in Women’s Sailing Award recipients, visit https://www.womensailing.org/leadership-in-womens-sailing.php