Sally Helme of Newport, RI, Publisher of Bonnier Corp.’s Cruising World and Sailing World magazines, is the 2015 recipient of the Leadership in Women’s Sailing Award. Presented by National Women’s Sailing Association (NWSA) and Boat Owners Association of The United States (BoatUS), the honor recognizes an individual with a record of achievement in inspiring, educating, and enriching the lives of women through sailing.
Women’s Sailing Conference Co-Chair Scottie Robinson, 2015 Leadership in Women’s Sailing Award honoree Sally Helme, Women’s Sailing Foundation President Linda Newland and Conference Co-Chair Joan Thayer © Susan Ogan
The award was presented at the NWSA Annual Conference in Marblehead, MA.
“Sally is a widely recognized leader in the sailing industry and she has effectively supported women in all aspects of sailing throughout her life,” said NWSA President Linda Newland. “She has made a significant impact on the business of sailing and how the roles of women in sailing are viewed. She works to inspire and lead women to enjoy sailing as much as she does.”
“I have always believed that women can have a significant impact on our industry, and it’s been my goal to spread that idea and encourage more efforts to meet the needs of this very important market,” said Helme. “I have also always valued what sailing can bring to our lives — providing a wonderful escape, instilling a sense of confidence and self-reliance, and simply offering cherished time on the water with friends and family.”
Helme, who has served on the boards of Sail Newport and US Sailing, was a founding member of International Women in Boating, a marine industry professional-development organization for women. She also worked with Offshore Sailing School CEO Doris Colgate to create and sponsor NWSA’s Take the Helm series of women’s educational and networking events. A past President of Sail America, she’s currently a Vice President of Marine Marketers of America.
