The Emerald Awards - Martin County honors women who exemplify leadership and serve as role models for young women in our community. Four awards will be given to women who embody the characteristics of today’s women leaders. An Emerald Awards honoree is recognized as a woman who brings new ideas to life, demonstrates creative problem-solving, and brings innovation to her field of expertise or community. She has positive values, a strong sense of self, seeks challenges, learns from setbacks, and is not afraid to shatter the glass ceiling. She recognizes the potential for leadership in every girl, inspires those around her to take action, and drives change in her community.

In addition, a Lifetime Achievement Award for Philanthropy will be given to a woman who demonstrates outstanding civic and charitable support. The Lifetime Achievement Award will highlight a woman whose generosity is evident through the considerable personal time and financial support she dedicates to programs and organizations that contribute to the well-being of our community. She embodies the spirit of giving in all aspects of her personal and professional life and strives to leave a legacy of philanthropy for future generations. 

The Emerald Awards luncheon will take place on Friday, February 20, 2026 at Sailfish Point Country Club in Stuart.

Who can be nominated?

1. Nominee must have lived and/or worked in Martin County for at least 3 years.
2. Nominee must have made a major contribution or a significant difference in her community.
3. Nominee cannot be a current board member of Girl Scouts of Southeast Florida.
4. Prior experience as a Girl Scout or working with Girl Scouts is not required.

How does the nomination process work?

1. Nominations must be approved by the nominee prior to submission.
2. Self-nominations will not be accepted.
3. Incomplete nominations will not be reviewed or returned.
4. An anonymous panel will review the nominations and choose the award recipients. The decision of the selection panel is final.

When will recipients be notified and honored?
The nominees selected to be honored will be notified the week of October 20, 2025. The selected honorees will be recognized at the Emerald Awards-Martin County luncheon on Friday, February 20, 2026.

• Honorees will receive two (2) complimentary tickets to the luncheon (honoree plus guest).
• Honorees must be available to attend the event.
• Honorees will be asked to provide a 100-word bio and a professional headshot by Monday, October 27, 2025.

Nomination submission deadline is Monday, October 13, 2025. If you have a question, please email Mandy Winkle, Events Manager, at mwinkle@gssef.org or call 561-676-4642.