Nancy Cueroni , Executive Director of the National Marine Distributors Association , has been named the 2024 Darlene Briggs Marine Woman of the Year , announced the MRAA Educational Foundation . The award was presented to Cueroni , the 38th recipient , as part of the Dealer Week Awards Luncheon on Tuesday , Dec . 10 at Dealer Week in Orlando , Fla .

Cueroni started her marine industry career in the late 1970s as a marina owner . After nearly a decade as the Director of Member Services for the Connecticut Marine Trades Association , she joined the NMDA in 1999 . For the last 26 years , Nancy , a Managing Partner for the Cueroni Management Group , has been passionately immersing

herself at the NMDA , supporting its members , association activities and initiatives and encouraging other marine professionals to flourish .

“ My motivation comes from the people I work with , pride in a job well done and the expectations set by those around me ,” said Cueroni . “ I believe success is best measured by achieving set goals and doing so in a way that reflects well on both the organization and me . ”

Cueroni has deep industry ties and made instrumental contributions as both a leader and mentor . She has advocated for the NMDA and impacted the broader marine industry , showcasing collaboration and leadership , serving as an officer ( former Chairman ) on the American Boat & Yacht Council board and a board member of a national trade association . She helped develop an annual awards program where marine distributors nominate and vote on their suppliers based on multiple criteria and varying weightings , creating a standard where customers evaluate manufacturers .

“ Mentorship is something I ’ ve always valued . I believe women , by working together , can achieve anything ,” said Cueroni . “ I regularly connect with women – and a few men – in the marine industry to discuss their thoughts , concerns and aspirations , offering insight and guidance where appropriate . I often encourage those I mentor to avoid letting ‘ being a woman ’ define their capabilities , whether it ’ s seeing it as a reason they can or can ’ t do a job . With time , we gain a unique wisdom , and one of the most powerful insights I share is that asking for help is a sign of strength , not weakness .”

Under Cueroni ’ s management , the NMDA has become more technologically advanced and built systems and objectives to help it grow , become more efficient and expand its industry leadership . While balancing the Association ’ s core activities , she has spearheaded new member development , newsletter creation and educational opportunities . All of these initiatives and resources help support members and allow her to engage them and continue her mission to know every member personally and to ensure they know her .

As she approaches retirement , Cueroni believes she has another huge opportunity for growth . She is working closely with her successor , which provides her with fresh perspectives and insights and a chance to continue learning and growing .

“ Those of us who have been here for the long haul have consistently striven to be professional , competent , kind and thoughtful ,” Cueroni said . “ I believe this approach has contributed significantly to advancing women in the marine industry , perhaps even more than any other factor . I am truly encouraged by the significant increase in women in the industry over the past 25 years that I have been involved on a national level . For many , the opportunity to combine a passion for boating with a fulfilling career is a dream come true .”

Michele Goldsmith , the 2024 Darlene Briggs award winner passed the torch to Cueroni . “ This is a recognition Nancy so richly deserves ,” stated

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