Deadlines for the MRAA Educational Foundation’s annual scholarships and for nominating someone for the Darlene Briggs Marine Woman of the Year Award are Oct. 13, just three weeks away. Acting now is a must.

Announcements of the recipients will be made during MRAA’s Dealer Week Conference and Expo, which returns to the Tampa Convention Center in Florida Dec. 4-7.

The Educational Foundation scholarships have been successful in assisting with career development for marine industry professionals. “In our effort to grow and maintain a robust workforce for our retail dealers, these scholarships adapt to support and meet current and future needs in our industry,” says Jeff Siems, president of the MRAA Foundation.

To date, the foundation has awarded more than 85 scholarships totaling more than $194,000. The scholarships are funded by contributions from independent donors and corporate partners.

The scholarships include:

• The Duane Spader Leadership Development Scholarship provides a full-ride tuition to attend the Spader Business Management Leadership Development Program.

• The Kevin Lodder Scholarship awards a tuition and travel stipend to attend Spader Business Management’s Total Management 1 Workshop.

• The Marine Trade Association Technical Scholarship provides financial support for technical training opportunities.

Darlene Briggs Award

For 35 years, this award has recognized women leaders in all segments of the industry, from manufacturing to retailing to associations. Last year’s recipient was Nikki Storey, president of the Great Lakes Boat Building School in Cedarville, Mich., which is known for its comprehensive, 12-month program that prepares students for careers in the marine industry.

Previous honorees reflect the wide range of women in the marine industry: Wanda Kenton Smith (Freedom Boat Club), Melissa Danko (Marine Trades Association of New Jersey), Joan Maxell (Regulator Marine), Susan Everhard (Florida Yacht Charters & Sales), Helen Lewis (Jerry’s Marine), and Bonnie Todtenhagen (Parker Boat Co.) the first recipient.

Click here for details and a nominating application.