RALEIGH, N.C. – The YWCA of the Greater Triangle invites nominations for its 27th annual class of the Academy of Women, which recognizes outstanding area women who are committed to improving the social and economic conditions that impact girls, women and their families in our community. The nomination deadline is Monday, August 10, 2009. Inductees to the Class of 2009 will be recognized at the YWCA Academy of Women Awards, held November 4 at the Downtown Raleigh Marriott.
The Academy of Women is a distinguished honor, recognizing remarkable women who excel in their fields while maintaining a strident commitment to achieve the YWCA mission of eliminating racism and empowering women. Established in 1983, the YWCA Academy of Women currently includes 234 women of distinction and extraordinary accomplishment.
Nominations are being accepted in 12 categories: Arts & Entertainment, Business, Community Service, Education, Entrepreneur, Exercise & Sports Science, Government, Health & Human Services, Professions, Racial Justice, Science & Technology, and Teen Woman.
“The women selected for 2009 will join a distinctive honor society and are among the most accomplished and talented leaders in our region,” said Folami Bandele, executive director, YWCA of the Greater Triangle. “We are proud to recognize remarkable businesswomen, artists, volunteers, public servants, educators and others who, in their unique way, work tirelessly and with enthusiasm to promote peace, justice, freedom and dignity for all people.”
Nominations for the award may be submitted by individuals, businesses, and community or civic organizations. Each individual or group may submit one nomination in each of the 12 categories. One woman may be nominated in up to two categories by each nominating party. The nomination packet can be downloaded at http://www.ywcatriangle.org. Questions regarding nominations can be directed to aow@ywcatriangle.org or (919) 834-7386.
Academy of Women inductees are selected through a formal evaluation process that includes review of the nominee’s qualifications and her commitment to the YWCA mission. Final selections for each category are made by a YWCA judging committee.
The YWCA unites women and men who strive to improve the social and economic conditions that affect girls, women and their families. Established locally in 1923, YWCA programs address disparities that still exist in health, education and economics to make life-changing differences for thousands of area families. These programs are represented through four core initiatives: Women's Empowerment, Racial Justice, Youth Development, and Health and Wellness. As a private, non-profit organization, the YWCA is dedicated to promoting peace, justice, freedom and dignity for all people.

