Apply Now for Women in Motorsports North America 2025 SHEro Award

Nominations are now open for the Women in Motorsports North America 2025 SHEro Award, marking the third year of this program dedicated to celebrating remarkable women in the motorsports industry. With Mazda joining AdventHealth and Jostens as a presenting sponsor for the upcoming year, support for women breaking ground in racing continues to grow.

Since the SHEro Award began in 2023, thirty-six women have been recognized for their significant achievements and positive influence within motorsports. Each year, the program highlights one national recipient, selected from a pool of outstanding nominees.

The recipient receives recognition during the annual Women with Drive Summit presented by Mobil 1. The next summit will take place in Indianapolis from December 8 to 10, 2025.

Jostens, the official award provider for high-profile organizations like NASCAR and NHRA, will again craft the signature SHEro trophies for the honorees. Curt Bruns from Jostens expressed how meaningful it has been to recognize these influential women since the award’s inception and looks forward to learning about the 2025 nominees.

AdventHealth returns for another year as a presenting sponsor, after nominating three inspiring women in 2024, including Audrey Gregory, Ph.D., RN. Gregory, who serves as Senior Executive Vice President and CEO of AdventHealth’s Multi-Division Delivery Network, was honored for her leadership and commitment to improving conditions for working mothers at major racing events.

She has also championed female drivers, including NASCAR’s Hailie Deegan. Gregory commented that motorsports reflects values such as resilience and teamwork, and sees the SHEro Award as a tribute to women who clear new paths in the industry.

Mazda enters the program as a new sponsor. The company, already recognized for supporting women in racing with programs like the MX-5 Cup and the Spec MX-5 Shootout, announced a $25,000 donation to boost the 2025 award’s impact.

This announcement was made during a televised segment that also highlighted their new Prime Video docuseries, “First to the Finish.” Jonathan Applegate of Mazda Motorsports North America shared the brand’s enthusiasm for promoting female leadership and backing the next generation of women in motorsports.

Sarah Smith, Chief Nursing Officer at AdventHealth Shawnee Mission in Kansas City, becomes the first winner of the 2025 SHEro Award. She is recognized for her work both as a healthcare leader and for her support at the Kansas Speedway.

The nomination process invites recommendations for all women involved in motorsports, whether as team members, officials, professionals, or volunteers. Each nomination includes the purchase of a custom-engraved trophy, worth $200, with proceeds supporting Women in Motorsports North America programs.

Nominations must be received by October 31, 2025, to be considered for the national recognition. The national honoree will receive complimentary registration to the Women with Drive Summit, as well as travel and hotel accommodations and a chance to speak at the event.

Past winners include Abigail Hempy, a Powertrain Engineer at NASCAR’s Research and Development Center, and Vicky Martinez Muella, the founder of “Path to the Pits.” Cindy Sisson, Executive Director of WIMNA, noted that honoring these accomplished women remains the heart of the organization’s mission.

She credited continued support from Jostens, AdventHealth, and Mazda for promoting women’s important roles in motorsports. The SHEro Award program continues to elevate inspiring stories and expand the visibility of female leaders throughout racing.