The Deaf Woman of the Year Award recognizes and honors a Deaf Woman whose life and work reflects her lifelong commitment to the Deaf Womens' enlightenment. DWR members are nominated based on several criteria. Deaf Women of Rochester presents this award annually at the Kick-off Picnic usually held on first Friday after Labor Day. (Please note DWR checks the calendar to make sure it doesn't conflict with Jewish holiday.

The recipient receives an engraved Deaf Woman of the Year plaque. Also, a nameplate will be added to DWR's Deaf Women of the Year plaque listing all women hanging on the wall at Rochester Recreation Club for the Deaf. The recipient also receives a life-time membership to DWR.

• Is 21 years of age or older
• Demonstrates good leadership skills
• Is active and devotes her time in a positive way to one or more Deaf organizations
• Has made an unique accomplishment that benefits the Deaf community
• Has extensive volunteer experience in the Greater Rochester area

Past Recipients of Deaf Woman of the Year

1994 Vicki T. Hurwitz	1995 Mindy J. Hopper	1996 Sally A. Taylor
1997 Colleen D. Daviton	1998 Sharon C. Staehle	1999 Paula E. Wollenhaupt
2000 Mary Mowl	2001 Val Nelson-Metlay	2002 Cindy Mann
2003 Patty Durr	2004 Beth Metlay	2005 Sally Skyer
2006 Pamela Hatch	2007 Dorothy Wilkins	2008 Carmella Ramey