Joyce Stein Memorial Award

Honoring those who make a positive impact on the growth and advancement of women

The Joyce Stein Memorial Award is given in memory of Boisean Joyce Ann Stein, a long-time supporter of the WCA (YWCA). Each year an individual who has made a positive impact on the growth and advancement of women is honored.

Back in 1973, Joyce Stein participated in a new women’s group that began as the result of a women’s conference held at Boise State College. The group wanted to continue discussions surrounding women’s issues and joined with the YWCA to open the Women’s Center in the basement of the YWCA. Joyce Stein, as a founding member and the first director of the Women’s Center, took on the issue of sexism in our community. As the group studied the prevalence of the issue, they came to the conclusion that domestic violence was a prevalent problem—which led to the YWCA’s involvement in the prevention of domestic violence. The elimination of sexism and domestic violence became the foundation for the organization’s work. After her untimely death in 1979, the YWCA named its highest award in her memory and has awarded this special recognition every year since 1980.

Nominations are welcomed from individuals, businesses and organizations. The nominee does not have to be distinguished by title or office, but rather by his or her efforts on behalf of women. In 2021, nominations will open in late Spring and the Awards ceremony will likely take place virtually in August. Contact info@wcaboise.org for more information.

Access the online nomination form here

Past Joyce Stein Award Recipients