WORCESTER—The YWCA Central Massachusetts is now accepting nominations for the 2025 Katharine F. Erskine Awards, which honor women who have demonstrated outstanding professional achievement, community leadership, and a deep commitment to racial justice and women’s empowerment.
Nominations are open through July 16, and award recipients will be honored at the annual Tribute to Women celebration on Tuesday, Sept. 30 at the AC Hotel Worcester. Since 1994, more than 135 women from across Central Massachusetts have received the Erskine Award, which the YWCA describes as a tribute to “pioneers—women who fearlessly broke through barriers and created new paths for others to follow.”
The award is named for Katharine Forbes Erskine, a two-time president of the YWCA in Worcester who championed women’s rights throughout her life.
“At YWCA Central Massachusetts, we honor the power of women who lead with courage,” said YWCA CEO Deborah Hall in the announcement. “The Katharine F. Erskine Award celebrates women who stand up, speak out, and work every day to create a more just and equitable world.”
Last year’s honorees included Judge Margaret Guzman, the first Latina appointed to the U.S. District Court in Worcester, and community leader Maydee Morales, director of the Resiliency Center at Worcester Community Action Council. They were joined by Christina Connolly of the Worcester Public Library and Laxmi Bissoondial of Worcester State University—each recognized for their leadership in public service, education, and equity work.
To learn more about the Erskine Awards and how to submit a nomination, visit ywcacm.org/event/tribute.
