Nominations Now Open for the 2026 Willoughby Award

The Willoughby Award honors a visionary philanthropic leader who uses her collective giving experience in new and innovative ways to strengthen local communities—particularly those that serve underserved or marginalized populations. This changemaker demonstrates extraordinary leadership through her work in the collective giving movement at the local or national level.

Each year, the Willoughby Award is announced and presented in conjunction with International Women’s Day on March 8, celebrating women whose philanthropy creates lasting impact.

“We were so proud to nominate Crickett Woloson, our 2025 Philanos Willoughby Award winner,” said Renee Gordon, Co-Chair of the Baltimore Women’s Giving Circle. “The nomination process offered a wonderful opportunity to reflect on Crickett’s extraordinary leadership and the impact she’s made through collaborative giving. We’re thrilled that she has received this well-deserved recognition for her vision and dedication to community.”

Who Should Be Nominated?

Do you know a member of your giving circle who:

• Has been inspired by collective giving to go beyond the philanthropic efforts of your circle’s grantmaking?
  

• Is a role model or mentor for others because of her philanthropic giving?
  

• Has identified new ways to meet community needs?
  

• Is inspiring more women to elevate, engage, and amplify their philanthropic voices?

Eligibility

Nominees may include:

• Members or staff of a Philanos Affiliate in good standing.
  

• Individual members of a Philanos Affiliate.
  

• Anyone previously nominated but not selected.
  (Current Philanos Board members are not eligible.)

Who May Submit a Nomination?

Nominations may be submitted by:

• A Philanos Affiliate Executive Director, Board Chair, or President, or
  

• A self-nominating member who identifies an endorser in their submission.
  

Honoring a Legacy of Leadership

In honor of Colleen Willoughby, this award recognizes one woman in the Philanos network who has taken her philanthropic experience beyond her circle—leading with purpose, challenging the status quo, and representing historically underrepresented populations.

“Each of our Willoughby Award recipients exemplifies the ripple effect of women’s collective giving,” said Ann Marie McGee, Philanos Co-Chair. “Their leadership shows how one circle—and one woman’s vision—can spark waves of change that extend far beyond their own communities.”

Learn more about the history of the Willoughby Award and past honorees here.

Nominations close February 1, 2026.

Submit your nomination here!