Girls Inc. surprises board member with award

A celebration was in order for Girls Incorporated of Sarasota County.

Two surprise awards were given out at a special presentation Dec. 18. The first National Girls Inc. Champions for Girls award was presented to an unsuspecting Sherry Watts for her many years of dedication to the organization and the program locally. Watts served as the previous president of Girls Inc. Sarasota. She was caught off guard by the recognition that included a video from National Girls Inc. President and CEO Judy Vredenburgh.

“I’ve watched generations of girls whose lives have changed,” Watts said. “There are thousands of women today who are happy and productive. They are strong, smart and bold women making a difference in the world, so I’m always honored to be a part of this organization.”

Friend and Girls Inc. Distinguished Board Chair Donna Ogilvie made sure she was present to see Watts recognized.

“She deserves it,” Ogilvie said. “She’s been doing so much for Girls Inc., and it’s high time that we honor her.”

Every year Girls Inc. of Sarasota names one girl who represents the motto of Strong, Smart and Bold with the Girl of the Year award. This year’s recipient is Isabelle Crotsley, whose parents, Hilda and Frank Crotsley, surprised her with the award at the presentation.

Former Girl of the Year recipients were onstage to welcome Crotsley into the group, and they presented her with flowers and a banner.