(Annapolis, Md.) – Amidst a backdrop of stormy weather, the Brendan Sailing Program’s annual award event, held on January 28th at The Byzantium Event Center, was a beacon of celebration and recognition for its 2023 participants and volunteers. The event, hosted by Brendan Sailing, a nonprofit organization dedicated to assisting youth with learning differences, was marked by camaraderie and achievement.
Over one hundred attendees, including campers, families, volunteers, and supporters, gathered to honor the outstanding sailors and volunteers of the past year. The event’s reach extended beyond the venue, as it was also broadcast live on Facebook for those unable to attend in person.
James P. Muldoon, Chairman of the Board, initiated the evening’s proceedings with a heartfelt thank you to all involved for their dedication to youth development. Joanne Dorval, Board President, and Charlie Arms, the outgoing Executive Director, co-hosted the event. A significant announcement was the introduction of Jane Millman as the new Executive Director, a move that has brought great excitement to the Brendan family.
The evening’s highlights included the presentation of several prestigious awards. A board member, Susan O’Brien, received the Valerie M. Hill Award from Linda Kessler of the Board of Directors, acknowledging her vital contributions as a parent and volunteer. Gary Hague, a longtime donor and volunteer instructor at the St. Mary’s camp, was honored with the Molly M. Mahoney Award for his significant impact on the program, presented by Todd Lochner of the Board of Directors.
Beth Berry, a marketing consultant and skipper of KYRIE, was recognized with the Kurt M. Lowman Award for her contributions as a Donnybrook crew member or supporter. Kurt Lowman’s family, including his widow, Roberta Wilson, and daughter, Nikki Lowman, presented this award.
Another board member, Derrick Cogburn, received the Joanne M. Dorval Award from Board President Joanne Dorval herself, acknowledging his exceptional contribution to the program over the year.
The Sailor Awards were a focal point of the evening, recognizing the achievements and leadership of young sailors. Owen Castro was awarded The Howard and Jean Kluttz NOGUTSNOGLORY Award for his exemplary leadership in the Annapolis Program. Gabi England received the inaugural Rick and Jenny Nelson Award for her influential role in the same program. Both awards were presented by their respective namesakes.
Max Heil was honored with the Franklin J. Jerry & Kathryn M. Wood Award for his leadership in the St. Mary’s Primary Level Program, presented by Board Member Rick Franke. Daniel Irwin received the Arthur A. Birney Outstanding Achievement Award for his achievements in the St. Mary’s Advanced Level program, presented by Board Member Lex Birney.
Instructors Lynn Fitzpatrick and Dianne Sullivan played a crucial role in assisting with the Sailor Awards presentations, highlighting the collaborative spirit of the Brendan Sailing community.
The event concluded with a heartfelt tribute to Charlie Arms, the departing executive director, for his significant contributions in steering the organization towards greater professionalism and expanding opportunities for youth with learning differences. His leadership has laid the groundwork for the organization’s future growth and success in fostering self-confidence and personal development among young sailors.
