Event Overview
YWCA WOMEN OF THE YEAR CELEBRATING HER JOURNEY
Event Overview YWCA Cass Clay, 3100 12th Avenue North, Fargo, ND 58102 701-232-2547 | ywcacassclay.org Purpose
Since 1973, we have been shining a spotlight on exceptional women. They are leaders, mentors, visionaries, angels and heroes. Help us highlight women who shape the Fargo-Moorhead community. You will honor her and inspire others when you nominate a women or business with passion, service and significant achievements to be recognized at this widely-celebrated event attended by 700+ people.
YWCA Cass Clay Mission
The YWCA Cass Clay is dedicated to eliminating racism, empowering women, and promoting peace, justice, freedom, and dignity for all. We strive to break the cycles of poverty and violence for women and their families.
Event Specifics
Monday, April 25, 2016 - Fargo Holiday Inn, 3803 13th Ave. S. 5:30 Social | 6:30 Dinner & Program
Nomination Deadline
The nomination deadline is Friday, February 19, 2016. All nomination forms must be postmarked by this date. Completed nominations can be delivered, emailed, faxed, or mailed to: YWCA Cass Clay, 3100 12th Avenue North, Fargo, ND 58102 ATTN: WOTY Nominations Email: [email protected], Fax: (701) 232-2590
Important Note
Please include information related only to the chosen category of nomination. Materials not directly addressing accomplishments in that specific category will not be considered. Please re-read the information provided to ensure placement in the appropriate category. Two letters of support are required, from two people other than the nominator, who can speak to the nominee’s achievements and impact. Each letter must be limited to one page. No other attachments will be considered.
Tickets
Please be ready to escort the nominee to the event. The nominee is a guest and will receive a ticket at no charge; the nominator’s ticket is reduced to $30. Table sponsorship is available. Contact the YWCA for more information. Additional individual tickets are available for $75 per person. Reserved tables are also available. A portion of the ticket price is a tax-deductible donation to the YWCA Cass Clay. This is a sell out event - we recommend securing tickets early to ensure a seat at your nominee’s table.
YWCA WOMEN OF THE YEAR CELEBRATING HER JOURNEY
Frequently Asked Questions Q. A.
How do women become nominated for Women of the Year? All nominations come from people in our community. Family members, friends, co-workers, and others are encouraged to nominate amazing women in their lives!
Q. A.
Are men allowed to nominate a woman for Women of the Year? Absolutely! Men are encouraged to take part in the process! Many men attend the event as well.
Q. A.
I’d like the nomination process to be a surprise. Can I nominate a woman without her knowledge? Unfortunately, keeping the nomination a surprise is not possible. Oftentimes, many nominators will interview the nominee to get information to accurately complete the nomination form. Additionally, the YWCA requires a signature from both the nominator and the nominee on the nomination form.
Q. A.
I’m unsure which category to select for my nominee. Can you help? The YWCA Cass Clay and the Women of the Year committee must remain neutral throughout the entire nomination process, so we cannot suggest a category for you. After reading through the category descriptions, select the one category that best suits the nominee and her accomplishments. Friends, family, and co-workers may be able to offer suggestions that can be helpful.
Q. A.
How will the nominee know if she has been selected to attend the Women of the Year banquet? All women who have been nominated will be honored. Even by their nomination, they gain recognition at the Women of the Year event on Monday, April 25, 2016 at the Fargo Holiday Inn. Selection of ‘Women of the Year’ in various categories are made at the event.
Q. A.
Are there any specific dates that the nominee should schedule on her calendar? Yes, there are two dates on which the nominee must be available. All nominees will have their photo taken on TBA date (a specific time will be set for each nominee). Also, all nominees must attend the Women of the Year event on Monday, April 25, 2016. Nominees should plan to arrive at the Fargo Holiday Inn no later than 5:15 p.m. The social hour begins at 5:30 p.m.; and the program starts at 6:30 p.m.
Q. A.
How does the ticketing process work for the Women of the Year banquet? Upon receiving the completed nomination form, a ticket is automatically reserved for both the nominee and her nominator. Each nominee will have an entire table of eight seats reserved; those seats will be held until shortly prior to the event. Additional tickets can be purchased through the YWCA Cass Clay’s administrative offices. If the nominee has individuals who would like to attend the event in her support, those individuals can request specific seating arrangements. The YWCA will make every attempt to seat them at the nominee’s table or a nearby table. Tickets can be purchased beginning January 4, 2016. Table sponsorships are also available.
Q. A.
Who selects the recipients of the Women of the Year awards? An independent panel of judges selects the recipient in each category. The panel of judges includes individuals with experience and expertise in the Women of the Year categories. All judges remain anonymous and the YWCA staff and Board of Directors have no involvement in the decision process.
YWCA WOMEN OF THE YEAR CELEBRATING HER JOURNEY
2016 Categories Criteria for Women of the Year Categories 1. Regard will be given to the ways in which the nominees exemplify the mission and vision of the YWCA as stated on the front of this nomination packet. The nominee’s contributions and degree of impact of her achievements may be in her neighborhood, community, state or nation. Those “behind the scenes” women as well as those in the public eye should be considered for all categories. 2. The nominee must be a resident or work in Cass County, North Dakota, or Clay County, Minnesota. Students attending educational institutions in Cass or Clay counties are also eligible. 3. If not selected as a Women of the Year recipient, an individual may be nominated either in the same or in a different category in future years. Past Women of the Year recipients are eligible to be nominated in another category after 3 years. 2016 Women of the Year Categories Please read through each category carefully and select the category best suited for the nominee. Individuals Advocating for Equality: Any woman whose work or community involvement brings respect, inclusion, and equal rights for all people. She challenges discriminatory practices and advocates to eliminate barriers so our community welcomes all. Arts & Culture: Any woman who contributes in creative arts or preserves the rich culture of Cass and Clay counties so that life here is immensely richer. She inspires an interest in local arts and culture while advocating for its preservation. Business: Women will be considered from all levels in the business world: business owners, managers, employees, and entrepreneurs. Nominees may be employed by profit or non-profit organizations and serve as role models of passion, big thinking, taking risks, and getting it done. Communications: Women who color outside the lines and weave masterful stories through marketing, advertising, and/or public relations. Women who inspire others through innovation while representing women as a powerful force in the field of communications. Community & Volunteer Service: Any woman who has graciously volunteered her time to make a difference in our community or has impacted others through public service. She pours energy into a cause and draws out the passion in others. Education: Women who shape the future working as teachers, administrators, or support staff in child care, elementary, secondary, higher education, non-traditional settings or community education. They nurture, empower, and spark their students to be more, do more, and serve more. Faith Community: This woman has made a significant contribution in bringing the mission and vision of the faith community to life by invigorating others to do ministry through her leadership. Health & Wellness: Any woman working in physical, mental, or spiritual health who empowers the whole person through her energy, adaptability, and prevention efforts. Lifetime Achievement (Florence Reed Owens): This woman must be at least 55 years of age and have demonstrated a long-term commitment to equality, empowering women and girls, and/or eliminating racism. She exemplifies integrity and displays compassion for humanity. Science & Technology: Any woman who thrives on technology, engineering, and/or science and utilizes her talents to improve our community while actively mentoring other women to join these important fields. Young Woman of Today & Tomorrow: This young woman is creating a brighter future for us all. She has demonstrated exceptional leadership, scholastic ability, volunteer service, or made bold achievements (ages 15-22). Youth Advocacy: Any woman who is an advocate for the health and well-being of youth; either by engaging in advocacy efforts on behalf of youth or working directly to make the future better and brighter by equipping our young people. Businesses Leader in Women’s Empowerment: This business or organization has proven remarkable dedication to advance women by empowering them to thrive socially, economically, and professionally.
YWCA WOMEN OF THE YEAR CELEBRATING HER JOURNEY
Nomination Application Please fill out completely. Type or print clearly. Nominations will not be considered without both signatures of the Nominator and Nominee.
Nominee Information Name Home Address
City/State/Zip
Place of Work
Title
Work Address
City/State/Zip
(to be listed in event program)
Home Phone
Cell Phone
Work Phone
Email Education (if applicable)
Birthdate
Category for which Nominee is being nominated First Time Nominee?
Yes
No | If no, when was the last nomination?
Nominator Information Name Home Address
City/State/Zip
Place of Work City/State/Zip
Work Address Home Phone Email Relationship to Nominee
Signatures Nominee Nominator
Cell Phone
Work Phone
YWCA WOMEN OF THE YEAR CELEBRATING HER JOURNEY
Nominee Interview Nominator, please use the following information to interview the nominee. Limit your response to the following three pages. Only information relevant to the award criteria will be considered. Type or print legibly. Please re-read the categories with the information written to ensure correct category placement. If nominating a business, please answer the italicized questions in parenthesis. Note: Information provided will be used to recognize the nominee at the event. What is her background in respect to the nomination? Where did she receive her education or training? What positions or roles has she held in this category? (Business nomination: What is the business’ background in respect to the nomination? Provide a brief history of the business.)
List specific examples of achievements and describe the impact of her contributions in the category for which she is nominated. (Business nomination: List specific examples of how the business has proven its dedication to the advancement of women.)
The YWCA Cass Clay is dedicated to eliminating racism, empowering women, and promoting peace, justice, freedom, and dignity for all. How do her achievements uphold the mission of the YWCA in relation to the category for which she is nominated? (Business nomination: How do the examples from the previous question uphold the mission of the YWCA?)
How would others describe her character? (Business nomination: What are the business’ professional or community accomplishments?)
What personal accomplishment gave her the most satisfaction? (Business nomination: What professional accomplishment provided the business the most satisfaction?)
How does she inspire others and who is her inspiration and why? (Business nomination: Where does the business gain inspiration and why?)
What does she want to leave as her legacy? (Business nomination: What does the business want to leave as a legacy to its community or employees?)
What other information would you or she care to share about her? (Business nomination: What other information would you or the business like to share about itself?)
Two letters of support are required, each from a different person, other than the nominator. These two people must be able to speak to the nominee’s achievements and impact. Each letter must be limited to one page. No other attachments will be considered.
OF THE THE YEAR YEAR YWCA WOMEN OF CELEBRATING HER JOURNEY JOURNEY
Nominator Checklist Nomination Checklist Thank you for nominating a women or business whose passion and service inspire you! We appreciate your nomination and invite you to join us in honoring the significant achievements of women and businesses at Women of the Year 2016! Please review the following checklist before submitting your Women of the Year Nomination Application. Nominator Checklist • I have read through each category and selected the best category for my nominee. • I have selected only one category for my nominee. • The nomination questions have been answered completely. • The nomination form is easy to read. • Two letters of support from persons other than myself are enclosed. • I, the nominator, have signed the nomination form. • The nominee has signed the nomination form. The deadline for nominations is Friday, February 19, 2016. All nomination forms must be postmarked by this date. Completed nominations can be delivered, mailed, emailed, or faxed to: Mail: YWCA Cass Clay, 3100 12th Avenue North, Fargo, ND 58102 ATTN: WOTY Nominations Email: [email protected] Fax: (701) 232-2590
Event Overview YWCA Cass Clay, 3100 12th Avenue North, Fargo, ND 58102 701-232-2547 | ywcacassclay.org Purpose
Since 1973, we have been shining a spotlight on exceptional women. They are leaders, mentors, visionaries, angels and heroes. Help us highlight women who shape the Fargo-Moorhead community. You will honor her and inspire others when you nominate a women or business with passion, service and significant achievements to be recognized at this widely-celebrated event attended by 700+ people.
YWCA Cass Clay Mission
The YWCA Cass Clay is dedicated to eliminating racism, empowering women, and promoting peace, justice, freedom, and dignity for all. We strive to break the cycles of poverty and violence for women and their families.
Event Specifics
Monday, April 25, 2016 - Fargo Holiday Inn, 3803 13th Ave. S. 5:30 Social | 6:30 Dinner & Program
Nomination Deadline
The nomination deadline is Friday, February 19, 2016. All nomination forms must be postmarked by this date. Completed nominations can be delivered, emailed, faxed, or mailed to: YWCA Cass Clay, 3100 12th Avenue North, Fargo, ND 58102 ATTN: WOTY Nominations Email: [email protected], Fax: (701) 232-2590
Important Note
Please include information related only to the chosen category of nomination. Materials not directly addressing accomplishments in that specific category will not be considered. Please re-read the information provided to ensure placement in the appropriate category. Two letters of support are required, from two people other than the nominator, who can speak to the nominee’s achievements and impact. Each letter must be limited to one page. No other attachments will be considered.
Tickets
Please be ready to escort the nominee to the event. The nominee is a guest and will receive a ticket at no charge; the nominator’s ticket is reduced to $30. Table sponsorship is available. Contact the YWCA for more information. Additional individual tickets are available for $75 per person. Reserved tables are also available. A portion of the ticket price is a tax-deductible donation to the YWCA Cass Clay. This is a sell out event - we recommend securing tickets early to ensure a seat at your nominee’s table.
YWCA WOMEN OF THE YEAR CELEBRATING HER JOURNEY
Frequently Asked Questions Q. A.
How do women become nominated for Women of the Year? All nominations come from people in our community. Family members, friends, co-workers, and others are encouraged to nominate amazing women in their lives!
Q. A.
Are men allowed to nominate a woman for Women of the Year? Absolutely! Men are encouraged to take part in the process! Many men attend the event as well.
Q. A.
I’d like the nomination process to be a surprise. Can I nominate a woman without her knowledge? Unfortunately, keeping the nomination a surprise is not possible. Oftentimes, many nominators will interview the nominee to get information to accurately complete the nomination form. Additionally, the YWCA requires a signature from both the nominator and the nominee on the nomination form.
Q. A.
I’m unsure which category to select for my nominee. Can you help? The YWCA Cass Clay and the Women of the Year committee must remain neutral throughout the entire nomination process, so we cannot suggest a category for you. After reading through the category descriptions, select the one category that best suits the nominee and her accomplishments. Friends, family, and co-workers may be able to offer suggestions that can be helpful.
Q. A.
How will the nominee know if she has been selected to attend the Women of the Year banquet? All women who have been nominated will be honored. Even by their nomination, they gain recognition at the Women of the Year event on Monday, April 25, 2016 at the Fargo Holiday Inn. Selection of ‘Women of the Year’ in various categories are made at the event.
Q. A.
Are there any specific dates that the nominee should schedule on her calendar? Yes, there are two dates on which the nominee must be available. All nominees will have their photo taken on TBA date (a specific time will be set for each nominee). Also, all nominees must attend the Women of the Year event on Monday, April 25, 2016. Nominees should plan to arrive at the Fargo Holiday Inn no later than 5:15 p.m. The social hour begins at 5:30 p.m.; and the program starts at 6:30 p.m.
Q. A.
How does the ticketing process work for the Women of the Year banquet? Upon receiving the completed nomination form, a ticket is automatically reserved for both the nominee and her nominator. Each nominee will have an entire table of eight seats reserved; those seats will be held until shortly prior to the event. Additional tickets can be purchased through the YWCA Cass Clay’s administrative offices. If the nominee has individuals who would like to attend the event in her support, those individuals can request specific seating arrangements. The YWCA will make every attempt to seat them at the nominee’s table or a nearby table. Tickets can be purchased beginning January 4, 2016. Table sponsorships are also available.
Q. A.
Who selects the recipients of the Women of the Year awards? An independent panel of judges selects the recipient in each category. The panel of judges includes individuals with experience and expertise in the Women of the Year categories. All judges remain anonymous and the YWCA staff and Board of Directors have no involvement in the decision process.
YWCA WOMEN OF THE YEAR CELEBRATING HER JOURNEY
2016 Categories Criteria for Women of the Year Categories 1. Regard will be given to the ways in which the nominees exemplify the mission and vision of the YWCA as stated on the front of this nomination packet. The nominee’s contributions and degree of impact of her achievements may be in her neighborhood, community, state or nation. Those “behind the scenes” women as well as those in the public eye should be considered for all categories. 2. The nominee must be a resident or work in Cass County, North Dakota, or Clay County, Minnesota. Students attending educational institutions in Cass or Clay counties are also eligible. 3. If not selected as a Women of the Year recipient, an individual may be nominated either in the same or in a different category in future years. Past Women of the Year recipients are eligible to be nominated in another category after 3 years. 2016 Women of the Year Categories Please read through each category carefully and select the category best suited for the nominee. Individuals Advocating for Equality: Any woman whose work or community involvement brings respect, inclusion, and equal rights for all people. She challenges discriminatory practices and advocates to eliminate barriers so our community welcomes all. Arts & Culture: Any woman who contributes in creative arts or preserves the rich culture of Cass and Clay counties so that life here is immensely richer. She inspires an interest in local arts and culture while advocating for its preservation. Business: Women will be considered from all levels in the business world: business owners, managers, employees, and entrepreneurs. Nominees may be employed by profit or non-profit organizations and serve as role models of passion, big thinking, taking risks, and getting it done. Communications: Women who color outside the lines and weave masterful stories through marketing, advertising, and/or public relations. Women who inspire others through innovation while representing women as a powerful force in the field of communications. Community & Volunteer Service: Any woman who has graciously volunteered her time to make a difference in our community or has impacted others through public service. She pours energy into a cause and draws out the passion in others. Education: Women who shape the future working as teachers, administrators, or support staff in child care, elementary, secondary, higher education, non-traditional settings or community education. They nurture, empower, and spark their students to be more, do more, and serve more. Faith Community: This woman has made a significant contribution in bringing the mission and vision of the faith community to life by invigorating others to do ministry through her leadership. Health & Wellness: Any woman working in physical, mental, or spiritual health who empowers the whole person through her energy, adaptability, and prevention efforts. Lifetime Achievement (Florence Reed Owens): This woman must be at least 55 years of age and have demonstrated a long-term commitment to equality, empowering women and girls, and/or eliminating racism. She exemplifies integrity and displays compassion for humanity. Science & Technology: Any woman who thrives on technology, engineering, and/or science and utilizes her talents to improve our community while actively mentoring other women to join these important fields. Young Woman of Today & Tomorrow: This young woman is creating a brighter future for us all. She has demonstrated exceptional leadership, scholastic ability, volunteer service, or made bold achievements (ages 15-22). Youth Advocacy: Any woman who is an advocate for the health and well-being of youth; either by engaging in advocacy efforts on behalf of youth or working directly to make the future better and brighter by equipping our young people. Businesses Leader in Women’s Empowerment: This business or organization has proven remarkable dedication to advance women by empowering them to thrive socially, economically, and professionally.
YWCA WOMEN OF THE YEAR CELEBRATING HER JOURNEY
Nomination Application Please fill out completely. Type or print clearly. Nominations will not be considered without both signatures of the Nominator and Nominee.
Nominee Information Name Home Address
City/State/Zip
Place of Work
Title
Work Address
City/State/Zip
(to be listed in event program)
Home Phone
Cell Phone
Work Phone
Email Education (if applicable)
Birthdate
Category for which Nominee is being nominated First Time Nominee?
Yes
No | If no, when was the last nomination?
Nominator Information Name Home Address
City/State/Zip
Place of Work City/State/Zip
Work Address Home Phone Email Relationship to Nominee
Signatures Nominee Nominator
Cell Phone
Work Phone
YWCA WOMEN OF THE YEAR CELEBRATING HER JOURNEY
Nominee Interview Nominator, please use the following information to interview the nominee. Limit your response to the following three pages. Only information relevant to the award criteria will be considered. Type or print legibly. Please re-read the categories with the information written to ensure correct category placement. If nominating a business, please answer the italicized questions in parenthesis. Note: Information provided will be used to recognize the nominee at the event. What is her background in respect to the nomination? Where did she receive her education or training? What positions or roles has she held in this category? (Business nomination: What is the business’ background in respect to the nomination? Provide a brief history of the business.)
List specific examples of achievements and describe the impact of her contributions in the category for which she is nominated. (Business nomination: List specific examples of how the business has proven its dedication to the advancement of women.)
The YWCA Cass Clay is dedicated to eliminating racism, empowering women, and promoting peace, justice, freedom, and dignity for all. How do her achievements uphold the mission of the YWCA in relation to the category for which she is nominated? (Business nomination: How do the examples from the previous question uphold the mission of the YWCA?)
How would others describe her character? (Business nomination: What are the business’ professional or community accomplishments?)
What personal accomplishment gave her the most satisfaction? (Business nomination: What professional accomplishment provided the business the most satisfaction?)
How does she inspire others and who is her inspiration and why? (Business nomination: Where does the business gain inspiration and why?)
What does she want to leave as her legacy? (Business nomination: What does the business want to leave as a legacy to its community or employees?)
What other information would you or she care to share about her? (Business nomination: What other information would you or the business like to share about itself?)
Two letters of support are required, each from a different person, other than the nominator. These two people must be able to speak to the nominee’s achievements and impact. Each letter must be limited to one page. No other attachments will be considered.
OF THE THE YEAR YEAR YWCA WOMEN OF CELEBRATING HER JOURNEY JOURNEY
Nominator Checklist Nomination Checklist Thank you for nominating a women or business whose passion and service inspire you! We appreciate your nomination and invite you to join us in honoring the significant achievements of women and businesses at Women of the Year 2016! Please review the following checklist before submitting your Women of the Year Nomination Application. Nominator Checklist • I have read through each category and selected the best category for my nominee. • I have selected only one category for my nominee. • The nomination questions have been answered completely. • The nomination form is easy to read. • Two letters of support from persons other than myself are enclosed. • I, the nominator, have signed the nomination form. • The nominee has signed the nomination form. The deadline for nominations is Friday, February 19, 2016. All nomination forms must be postmarked by this date. Completed nominations can be delivered, mailed, emailed, or faxed to: Mail: YWCA Cass Clay, 3100 12th Avenue North, Fargo, ND 58102 ATTN: WOTY Nominations Email: [email protected] Fax: (701) 232-2590
