Annual Awards Provide Educational Support and Industry Recognition for Marine Industry Professionals and Dealership Teams Committed to Career Growth and Leadership
MINNEAPOLIS (Sept. 3, 2026) — The MRAA Educational Foundation has opened applications and nominations for its 2026 scholarships and awards. They provide marine industry professionals and dealerships with opportunities to invest in leadership development, business management education and service department excellence.
Application Deadline is Oct. 16, 2026
Applications and nominations are now being accepted through Oct. 16, 2026, for four scholarship and award opportunities administered by the MRAA Educational Foundation, a nonprofit 501(c)(3) organization dedicated to supporting education and professional development throughout the marine industry.
The Foundation’s scholarship portfolio includes opportunities focused on business management, leadership development, recognition of women leaders in the marine industry and strengthening dealership service operations. The MRAA Educational Foundation provides financial support that helps dealership team members access educational programs, leadership training and career development opportunities that strengthen dealership operations and support long-term industry growth.
Scholarships & Award
Eligible individuals and dealerships may apply or be nominated for the following opportunities:
- Darlene Briggs Marine Industry Woman of the Year Award: The Darlene Briggs Marine Woman of the Year Award, presented annually by the MRAA and Boating Industry magazine, honors an outstanding woman in the marine industry. This prestigious award recognizes long and devoted service, untiring commitment and the advancement of women in the marine industry. Named in memory of the late Darlene Briggs of Wayzata, Minn., who was revered for her tireless dedication to the industry. 2025 recipient: Kim Sweers, FB Marine Group, Fort Lauderdale, Fla.
- Darlene Briggs Marine Industry Woman of the Year Scholarship: The MRAA Educational Foundation will award a woman in leadership or aspiring to a leadership position, with the Darlene Briggs Marine Woman of the Year Scholarship. It is in honor of the Woman of the Year Award recipient. This scholarship will offer tuition reimbursement up to $3,000 for the recipient to attend a leadership program. The Foundation has provided a list of pre-approved, recommended courses they can choose from. 2025 recipient: Daniella Rico, Bonita Boat Center, Bonita Springs, Fla.
- Kevin Lodder Business Management Scholarship: Established in 2004 in memory of Kevin Lodder to honor his passion for the industry and commitment to achieving greater success through first-class education, The Kevin Lodder Scholarship includes NCM Associates’ Total Management 1 tuition plus travel stipend. 2025 recipient: Poppy Troxel, Sea Ray of Cincinnati, in Ohio.
- Duane Spader Leadership Development Scholarship: The Duane Spader Leadership Development Scholarship, established in 2013, honors Duane Spader’s dedication to the marine industry and his philosophy of lifelong learning. The honoree will get to choose 3 of 5 optional leadership-focused professional development offerings from NCM Associates. 2025 recipient: Justin Dysert, Taylor’s South Shore Marina, Waynesville, Ohio.
- Service Department Excellence Scholarship: The Service Department Excellence Scholarship package was established in 2025 to help drive higher levels of performance for the dealership awarded with this opportunity. It includes service certifications plus up to $2,500 technician training support. 2025 recipient: Reeder Trausch Marine, Rockville, Ind.
Fueling Growth — Recognized at Dealer Week 2026
“Education fuels growth for both people and businesses within marine retail,” said Ridgeway Addison, MRAA Senior Director of Education. “Through these scholarships and awards, the MRAA Educational Foundation honors industry icons and invests in professionals committed to growing their skills, leading stronger teams and shaping the future of the marine industry.”
Recipients will be recognized during the Awards Luncheon from 12:30 to 2 p.m. Tuesday, Dec. 8, at Dealer Week in Tampa, Florida. Complete eligibility requirements, award details and application materials are available at mraa.com/mraa-educational-foundation-scholarships.
About the MRAA Educational Foundation
The MRAA Educational Foundation is a nonprofit 501(c)(3) organization that supports education, leadership development and career advancement across the marine industry. Over the past 20 years, the Foundation has awarded more than 85 scholarships and awards valued at more than $200,000. Donations from individual supporters and industry partners make these opportunities possible. To learn more about the Foundation or make a contribution, visit MRAA.com/foundation.
About Dealer Week
For more than 50 years, the Marine Retailers Association of the Americas has delivered world-class education to marine dealers, retailers and service operations that power the boating industry. Dealer Week exists to engage, energize and empower the dealer community. MRAA envisions a brighter future for marine retail, and Dealer Week is a key part of bringing that vision to life. Learn more at dealerweek.com.
About the Marine Retailers Association of the Americas (MRAA)
The Marine Retailers Association of the Americas is the trusted catalyst for success in the marine retail industry. Dedicated to fueling dealer growth and strengthening the boating experience, MRAA delivers industry-leading insights, expert guidance and proven solutions that assist marine retailers in navigating challenges and seizing opportunities. Through education, advocacy and innovative resources, MRAA empowers dealers to thrive, and help drive a stronger, more sustainable marine industry. Learn more at MRAA.com.
