Nominations are officially open for the 2027 Leadership in Women’s Sailing Award, the prestigious national honor co-sponsored by the National Women’s Sailing Association and BoatUS. Since 1999, this women’s sailing award has celebrated individuals from the United States who have demonstrated outstanding achievement in inspiring, educating, and enriching the lives of women through the sport of sailing. Past recipients have spanned a wide range of backgrounds, including sailing instructors, writers, sailboat racers and cruisers, marine industry professionals, and boating club leaders.
“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 through the NWSA website until February 1, 2027. The recipient will be announced at the June 2027 NWSA Women’s Sailing Conference in Boston, Mass. Anyone with questions can reach out 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 elaborated on the broader mission behind the award, noting, “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.
The Leadership in Women’s Sailing Award continues to shine a spotlight on the individuals who make a lasting difference in the sailing community. To learn more about past recipients and submit a nomination, visit the NWSA website.
