2025 NATIONAL SHEro AWARD VOTING
You can help select this year’s national overall WIMNA SHEro Award winner!
Simply read each nominee’s bio below, and complete the form to cast your vote.
You’ll receive a maximum of five votes per day, so vote often, support your favorites, and share with your friends!
Online voting runs from midnight on October 20, 2025, through 11:59 p.m. on October 27, 2025, and the winner will be announced at the Women with Drive V – Driven by Mobil 1 Summit in December in Indianapolis. CLICK HERE for Rules and Eligibility.
READ ALL NOMINEE BIOS HERE
Zoë exemplifies visionary leadership, bold creativity, and unstoppable drive. As the co-founder of DART Car, Zoë has pioneered a groundbreaking initiative at the intersection of motorsports and fine art —fields where women are vastly underrepresented. Through DART, she’s built a platform that empowers women to compete, create, and lead on a global stage.
What makes Zoë a true SHEro is her unwavering commitment to equity and innovation. She’s not just breaking barriers; she’s redefining what’s possible —fielding all-female driver lineups in elite endurance races while partnering with world-renowned artists to turn race gear into collectible works of art. Her ability to bring people together across industries, rally support, and turn vision into impact is truly inspiring.
Zoë leads with courage, generosity, and grit. Whether she’s advocating for sponsorships, mentoring team members, or strategizing the next cultural activation, she shows up with purpose and heart. She’s not just changing the game —she’s creating a new one.
Jessica Bean embodies the true spirit of a SHEro through her trailblazing accomplishments, resilience, and leadership in motorsports. From her early days in quarter midgets—where she earned six track championships, over 60 feature wins, and three track records—to making history as the first woman to win the USSA Kenyon Midget Championship, Jessica has continually redefined what’s possible for women in racing. She stands as USAC’s winningest female driver, with 26 feature victories and three consecutive USAC Speed2 Eastern Midget Association titles, proving that perseverance and talent can overcome any obstacle.
When injuries and funding challenges threatened to stall her career, Jessica’s determination only grew stronger. Today, she channels her experience into shaping the future of motorsports as Pit Steward for the NASCAR Youth Series, the quarter midget division of USAC—a role she began in 2011 as an intern while still competing. Through this position, she has mentored thousands of young drivers, guiding them with the same tenacity that defined her own journey. Her leadership, especially as a visible and respected woman in a pivotal role, shows young racers—particularly girls—that there’s a place for them at every level of the sport.
Off the track, Jessica’s impact extends to her community through advocacy and charitable efforts, including her work with the American Cancer Society’s “Finish the Fight” campaign. Whether behind the wheel or leading from the pits, Jessica Bean exemplifies courage, compassion, and commitment. A record-setting driver, mentor, and role model, she continues to inspire others to chase their dreams with heart, grit, and purpose—making her a most deserving SHEro nominee.
Mandi Bender is a dynamic professional whose calm and capable leadership has shone in some of motorsports’ most demanding environments. During the celebration of Mario Andretti’s final IndyCar win at Phoenix Raceway, she coordinated a high-profile event involving legendary drivers and extensive media attention, managing the complexity with precision, efficiency, and poise.
At the Indianapolis Motor Speedway Museum, Mandi has been a driving force behind the $80 million reimagination project —a complete transformation of the historic facility. She embraced significant responsibilities outside her formal training, successfully leading key aspects of project management and stakeholder coordination.
Mandi is recognized for her ability to turn challenges into opportunities, consistently approaching her work with professionalism, collaboration, and a positive outlook. Known for her gracious demeanor and strong work ethic, she inspires colleagues and partners alike. Her contributions exemplify leadership, perseverance, and dedication, making her an exceptional candidate for the SHEro Award.
Brooke Bond is a passionate advocate for creating pathways for women in motorsports. Through her work with Electrify Your Career events, including those at VIR in 2024 and Laguna Seca in 2025, she has inspired and empowered attendees to pursue opportunities they may never have considered possible.
Brooke is known for her genuine kindness, her ability to actively listen, and her drive to connect women with the people and resources that can advance their careers. She absorbs knowledge from every interaction and uses it to make the next opportunity even more impactful.
Her dedication to building access and opening doors for women is helping to shape the next generation of motorsports professionals. Brooke’s commitment to mentorship, growth, and empowerment makes her an outstanding candidate for the SHEro Award.
Alba Colon has spent her career opening doors and lifting others as she climbs, becoming one of the most respected figures in motorsports engineering. As a board member of the STEAM Sports Foundation, she has been an invaluable mentor and advisor, guiding efforts to expand opportunities for minority women pursuing careers in the sport. For the past two years, Alba has served on the foundation’s selection committee and played a hands-on role during Immersion Tours, where students experience a race weekend up close in Charlotte. Her presence and wisdom leave a lasting impression, with one student recently sharing, “Alba handles life with grace and compassion, and I find [her] inspiring.”
Beyond her direct mentorship, Alba’s professional legacy is equally groundbreaking. She has thrived for more than 25 years at Hendrick Motorsports—NASCAR’s winningest team—while remaining deeply engaged in SHPE, WIMNA (where she leads as a regional chair), SAE, and STEM/STEAM initiatives. Her impact has been recognized through prestigious honors including the Hispanic Heritage Foundation STEM Award, the Kate Gleason Award, and SAE International’s Rodica Baranescu Award. Alba’s ability to lead with both technical excellence and human connection has made her a role model for the next generation of engineers and changemakers in motorsports.
The daughter of race car driver and IndyCar team owner John Della Penna, Michelle Della Penna grew up surrounded by the excitement of motorsports—yet often as the only Latina girl in the paddock. That unique experience shaped her lifelong mission: to ensure that young girls can see themselves in every corner of the racing world. After her father’s passing, she founded the Della Penna Motorsports Next Gen Foundation to honor his legacy by creating pathways for girls to discover the many opportunities within the $7 billion motorsports industry.
Now in its fourth year, the Foundation has already introduced more than 500 girls to motorsports through hands-on programs across California, Indiana, and beyond. These include trackside talks with women working in racing, immersive three-day workshops in Indianapolis, and week-long fellowships and karting scholarships designed to give participants a front-row seat to the action. Through these experiences, young women connect directly with engineers, technicians, marketers, managers, and drivers—gaining not just exposure, but mentorship and real-world insight.
Michelle’s impact is tangible. Graduates of her programs have gone on to attend Purdue University’s renowned motorsports engineering program, pursue professional driving aspirations, and earn internships across the industry. Her work fills a critical gap at a pivotal age when girls often lose interest in STEM and sports. Through vision, dedication, and compassion, Michelle Della Penna is ensuring the next generation of women in motorsports doesn’t just watch from the sidelines—they take the wheel.
SARAH C. FAIN
Martinsville Speedway,
Retired VP
Sarah C. Fain’s legacy at Martinsville Speedway is one built on family, professionalism, and perseverance. The granddaughter of track founder H. Clay Earles, Sarah quite literally grew up at the historic Virginia speedway, surrounded by the sights and sounds of racing. After attending James Madison University, she began her full-time career in 1979 in the ticketing department, working alongside her mother and aunt. In an era when few women held leadership roles in motorsports, the three set an industry standard for excellence and efficiency that became a model for others to follow.
Over nearly three decades, Sarah’s leadership and dedication helped shape the business operations of Martinsville Speedway. Rising through the ranks, she was eventually named Vice President, overseeing ticketing and business operations for the facility. Known for her calm confidence, meticulous organization, and deep understanding of both fans and the sport, she earned the respect of colleagues, competitors, and industry peers alike.
When Sarah retired in 2007 after 28 years of service, she left behind not only a legacy of operational success but also one of mentorship and integrity. She inspired those who worked alongside her—including future leaders like Tracie Slack—to uphold the same standards of excellence and professionalism she embodied every day. Sarah’s contributions to Martinsville Speedway and to women in motorsports continue to resonate, reminding everyone that grace, diligence, and leadership can leave a mark that lasts far beyond the finish line.
Eloisa Garza is a quiet powerhouse whose craftsmanship, integrity, and perseverance have left an indelible mark on the racing industry. Trained by the legendary Jim Hall, she quickly earned a reputation as one of the best in the business—known throughout Indianapolis and beyond for her unmatched skill in composite repair and fabrication. For years, her shop, EG Composites, was the go-to destination for race teams who trusted only Eloisa’s precision and expertise to get their cars back on track.
In an industry long dominated by men, Eloisa not only broke barriers as a woman but also as a proud representative of her cultural heritage. Yet, her professionalism and excellence transcended every boundary. Those who worked with her didn’t just respect her—they relied on her. Her honesty, work ethic, and mastery of her craft set a new standard, earning her the admiration of teams, drivers, and peers across the racing community.
Though EG Composites is no longer in business, Eloisa’s influence continues to resonate. She remains an active mentor, sharing her knowledge and passion with others while staying deeply connected to the sport she loves. Whether seen at the track or celebrated by those she’s inspired, Eloisa Garza stands as a true SHEro—proof that skill, integrity, and perseverance can pave the way for lasting respect and change.
Emelia Hartford is a trailblazer redefining what it means to be a woman in motorsports. As the creator of one of the largest female-led automotive platforms in the world, she has inspired millions through her record-breaking builds, fearless racing, and authentic storytelling. From building one of the world’s fastest twin-turbo C8 Corvettes in her own garage to piloting the fastest Nissan Z ever recorded, Emelia has proven that talent, vision, and determination know no boundaries.
But Emelia’s influence extends far beyond the cars she builds. She uses her platform to spotlight other women in the industry, championing inclusion and breaking stereotypes in one of the most male-dominated arenas. Her participation in iconic events like Pikes Peak—and her ability to merge engineering with entertainment—have made her a visible force for representation, empowering young women to see themselves not just as spectators, but as competitors, creators, and leaders.
A gifted storyteller, Emelia combines technical expertise with a relatable voice that bridges culture, media, and motorsports. Through grit, authenticity, and creativity, she’s building more than cars—she’s building a movement. For her groundbreaking achievements as a racer, innovator, and advocate, Emelia Hartford is a true SHEro, inspiring the next generation to dream boldly and drive fearlessly.
Mickelina Monico is a remarkable young leader who is using her passion for racing to drive meaningful change. As the founder and president of Race for Research, a 501(c)(3) nonprofit, she has raised nearly half a million dollars for St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital.
A micro sprint driver in Northern California, Mickelina brings racing families together each year for the Race for Research Celebrity Waiter Dinner Gala —a sold-out formal event that continues to grow in impact and attendance. The 2025 gala, held on May 9, marked the third annual event and raised an extraordinary $296,380 in a single evening with nearly 500 guests in attendance.
Beyond her nonprofit work, Mickelina is pursuing a degree in neurobiology at St. Mary’s College, balancing rigorous academics with her commitment to philanthropy and her racing career. She is a powerful example of how passion, determination, and purpose can come together to create lasting impact.
Mickelina’s leadership, drive, and vision make her an inspiring candidate for the SHEro Award.
Sally Mott is a 20-year-old professional race car driver and entrepreneur who is breaking barriers and redefining what’s possible for women in motorsports. What began as a father-daughter hobby at eight years old has evolved into a professional career fueled by skill, determination, and drive. After advancing through karting and Spec Miata racing, Sally earned the prestigious Mazda MX-5 Cup Women’s Initiative Scholarship in 2023, securing her place as a factory-supported Mazda driver. In her 2024 rookie season, she finished 12th in the championship, was the highest-finishing female driver, and achieved a personal best of sixth place.
Now in her 2025 sophomore season, Sally continues to rise through the Mazda MX-5 Cup, consistently running in the top ten and positioning herself as a podium contender. Her growing reputation and partnership with Mazda led to her being featured in the Prime Video docuseries First to the Finish, which showcases the next generation of women transforming motorsports. Through this collaboration, Sally has become a visible ambassador for women racers, using her platform to inspire and connect with audiences beyond the track.
Beyond her own success, Sally is deeply committed to giving back. She plans to establish a racing school for young female drivers to provide mentorship, training, and access to opportunities that can change lives. Her combination of talent, purpose, and leadership makes Sally Mott an extraordinary candidate for the SHEro Award.
Karen Nowakowski exemplifies what it means to be a SHEro—strong, dedicated, and selfless in every aspect of her life. As a Field Investigator for IMSA, she upholds the highest standards of safety and integrity, working alongside IMSA leadership, the AMR Safety Team, local track officials, and race teams to ensure events run efficiently and safely. With her deep knowledge of motorsports, fire safety, and emergency medical services, Karen has become an indispensable part of the racing community. Beyond IMSA, she serves as a Fire Science Instructor at Lanier College, is a retired Fire Lieutenant and Navy Veteran, and continues to work on the Road Atlanta Rescue Team, bringing her experience, mentorship, and leadership to every role she takes on.
Off the track, Karen’s courage and resilience were put to the test when her husband was diagnosed with cancer in late 2024. She faced the challenge head-on—educating herself about his diagnosis, treatments, and every stage of his care—while remaining his unwavering support through months of surgeries, chemotherapy, and recovery. Even during this difficult time, she continued to show up for her IMSA colleagues, students, rescue teammates, and community with strength and grace. In July 2025, her husband completed his final chemotherapy session and was declared No Evidence of Disease, marking a powerful new chapter in their journey together.
Karen’s story is one of perseverance, compassion, and unwavering dedication. Whether she is leading on track, teaching in the classroom, or caring for others in moments of crisis, she demonstrates grace under pressure and a deep commitment to helping others. She is not only a role model for women in motorsports but a true inspiration to everyone around her—proving that leadership, heart, and courage can coexist in the most powerful way.
Josie Rimmer is an emerging leader in motorsports who has transformed her passion for rally driving into a powerful platform for inclusion and inspiration. As a member of the DirtFish Rally School team, Josie has played a key role in shaping the school’s vision for accessibility and growth—most notably by creating and leading its Women’s Program, which has expanded participation and interest in rally driving worldwide.
Curious, thoughtful, and action-oriented, Josie brings both heart and strategy to her work. She listens, learns, and then turns ideas into impact. Recognizing rally as a metaphor for stepping outside one’s comfort zone, she has helped redefine what it means to belong in motorsports.
Through her creation of the Women in Motorsports Summit, Josie has brought together women from around the world to connect, share experiences, and build a community of support within the rally community and beyond. Her leadership, creativity, and commitment to empowering others make her an inspiring candidate for the SHEro Award.
SARAH SMITH
Kansas Speedway,
Clinical Teams Staffing Leader
Sarah Smith exemplifies leadership, compassion, and resilience—qualities that define a true SHEro. As the leader of the clinical teams staffing the infield care center at Kansas Speedway, Sarah has spent the last several years ensuring the safety and well-being of drivers during some of motorsports’ most critical moments. Her calm presence, quick decision-making, and unwavering dedication to care have earned her deep respect from both drivers and medical peers.
Off the track, Sarah serves as Assistant Chief Nursing Officer at AdventHealth Shawnee Mission, where she previously led Emergency Services and Behavioral Health. She designed and implemented the Rapid Care Path, an innovative system that streamlines care for patients with minor illnesses and injuries—reducing wait times and improving patient outcomes for over 15 consecutive months. Her transformative leadership earned her the AdventHealth Shawnee Mission Leader of the Year Award in 2024.
Sarah is not only a skilled clinician and leader but also a role model for women in motorsports. Her ability to lead with both competence and compassion in a high-pressure, male-dominated environment inspires others to see themselves as capable of doing the same. Her work doesn’t just serve the sport—it strengthens and redefines it, making her an outstanding candidate for the SHEro Award.
Chloe Vazquez is one of the most passionate and effective advocates for women in the automotive and motorsports industries. Beyond her own professional achievements, she dedicates her time and energy to creating opportunities for others—offering mentorship, guidance, and meaningful connections that help women advance and thrive. Her leadership extends beyond the track and the workplace, building an inclusive community grounded in support, collaboration, and empowerment.
Chloe’s commitment to strengthening the motorsports ecosystem is unparalleled. She consistently goes above and beyond to foster belonging, uplift women’s voices, and open doors for those who might otherwise be overlooked. Her efforts have had a tangible impact on countless careers and continue to inspire a culture of inclusion and progress across the industry.
Her compassion, authenticity, and generosity of spirit are at the heart of her influence. Through her encouragement and advocacy, she has reignited others’ passions, including helping women reconnect with their careers and engage with organizations such as Women in Motorsports North America (WIMNA). Chloe Vazquez’s unwavering dedication to empowering others makes her an extraordinary and deserving candidate for the SHEro Award.
LEGACY MOTOR CLUB proudly nominates Nikki Vicariolifor her relentless work ethic, positive energy, and invaluable contributions to the team. As a key member of the accounting department, Nikki plays an essential role in keeping the organization on track—managing budgets, overseeing financial details, and ensuring that operations run smoothly and efficiently.
Beyond her professional excellence, Nikki brings warmth and positivity to every interaction. Her genuine smile, upbeat attitude, and willingness to help others have made her a cornerstone of the company’s culture. Whether assisting colleagues with paperwork or helping navigate complex budget items, she consistently lifts morale and strengthens the sense of teamwork that defines LEGACY MOTOR CLUB.
Nikki’s dedication, integrity, and infectious enthusiasm make her not only a trusted professional but also an inspiring colleague. LEGACY MOTOR CLUB is a stronger, more connected organization because of her. She embodies the spirit of the SHEro Award—a woman whose leadership, commitment, and heart make a lasting impact on those around her.
Erin Vogel is a transformational leader, mentor, and advocate for women in motorsports. She is known for her generosity, authenticity, and unwavering commitment to opening doors for others. Erin treats every driver she supports like family, offering not just guidance but genuine belief in their potential. Her mentorship has helped launch careers —including kickstarting a full season in the Mazda MX-5 Cup for one of her drivers —and her impact extends far beyond the track.
In 2025, Erin launched the AE Victory Racing Shootout, a groundbreaking program designed to give underfunded female drivers a real chance to compete. She personally selected four qualified women, covered all expenses, and awarded the winner a full-season ride in her GT4 Supra in the WRL. This program is a testament to her philosophy of action over words —she doesn’t just talk about creating opportunities, she makes them happen.
Erin also leads by example within her own team, intentionally hiring a majority-female staff —from engineers to team managers —to give women hands-on experience and meaningful career opportunities. She has sponsored emerging talent like Sally Mott, brought others like Charlotte Traynor into unforgettable racing experiences, and continues to mentor and support women across the motorsports community.
Erin Vogel is not in it for the spotlight. Despite her own successful racing career, she has chosen to invest her time, resources, and passion into elevating others. She is changing lives, not just careers, and is an extraordinary candidate for the SHEro Award.
Melissa Wahe, founder of CarmaCare California, embodies what it means to be a SHEro: resilient, innovative, and committed to empowering women. While pursuing her Master’s in Social Work, her curiosity for mechanics led her into local garages, where she discovered a significant gap in accessible, women-centered automotive education —and she set out to change it.
Through CarmaCareCalifornia.com, Melissa has built a platform dedicated to breaking down barriers in a traditionally male-dominated field. Her tailored workshops, now offered across California and Denver, teach women vehicle basics, safe driving practices, and how to decode automotive jargon. Hundreds of women have left her sessions with newfound confidence and the knowledge to take control of their car care and safety.
Melissa’s impact extends beyond education. A portion of CarmaCare’s proceeds supports the American Breast Cancer Foundation, combining automotive literacy with community service. Her upcoming CarmaCare mobile app will expand this mission by offering trusted service recommendations, resources, and discounts designed for women drivers.
In a space long dominated by men, Melissa Wahe is blazing a new trail —one that empowers women through knowledge, self-reliance, and inclusion. Her leadership not only educates but inspires, proving that meaningful change in the automotive world is both possible and unstoppable.
Donna Wittlin embodies the quiet strength and unwavering support that define a true SHEro. Though not a racer herself, she has been the driving force behind her son’s journey in motorsports from the very beginning—proving that passion, perseverance, and love can build careers both on and off the track.
With no prior experience in racing, Donna immersed herself in the sport—learning everything from schedules and sponsorship decks to tire pressures and travel logistics. She has become her son’s manager, media contact, creative director, and emotional pit crew all in one. Using her background in branding and design, she has built his professional presence while sharing the behind-the-scenes challenges and triumphs of life in motorsports. Her dedication extends beyond her own family—she has become an advocate and mentor to the parents, volunteers, and young drivers who make the sport possible.
Their story began with Donna’s first sports car, a Porsche 986.1 Boxster, purchased before marriage and family. She even installed an airbag kill switch so her son could safely ride beside her as a toddler—a small act that sparked a lifelong bond through racing. Twenty years later, he set a track record at Willow Springs in that same car. Donna’s journey is one of quiet impact, resilience, and devotion. She has never sought the spotlight, yet she has been driving it all along—making her an exceptional and deeply deserving nominee for the 2025 WIMNA SHEro Award