A women of Distinction nominee is a woman who:

• demonstrates high ethical standards personally,
• is a recognized role model,
• has a strong sense of community responsibility, and
• is outstanding in her contributions within Martin County

The four categories in which a woman can be nominated for Women of Distinction are (all will be honored in a program and at the event, one will be selected as the finalist):

• Business/Professional - A woman who is self-employed or employed by a for-profit business or corporation. She is recognized for her outstanding service in her field and significant contributions to the community through her profession.
• Civic/Professional - A woman who is employed by a non-profit or community organization funded primarily by municipal, county, state or federal grants or funds donated by the general public. Her contributions to the community take place in this arena.
• Volunteer - A woman who has a history of an outstanding, continuing commitment to her community through her volunteer services.
• Rising Star - A young woman between the ages of 17 and 21 who demonstrates outstanding commitment to her field of employment and/or community with fresh ideas, energy and enthusiasm.

• Judges representing a cross-section of Martin County residents shall select one award recipient per category, basing selection upon the information submitted in the Nominator Summary and the Nominee Profile Form.
• Only the first fifteen (15) completed nominations in each category shall be considered. Soroptimist International of Stuart reserves the right to review nominations and place nominees in the appropriate award category. Whether the Nominator Summary and/or Nominee Profile Form are complete shall be at the sole discretion of Soroptimist International of Stuart.
• Soroptimist members may not nominate other Soroptimist members. Soroptimist members, nominees and nominators for the 2013 awards are not eligible to be judges.