Norwegian Cruise Line announced the 20 winners of its fifth annual Norwegian’s Giving Joy Program. The program recognizes educator’s across the United States and Canada for their dedication to their students and their desire to bring joy to their classroom.
The 20 winners will receive an invitation to attend the exclusive two-day inaugural event aboard Norwegian Aqua when she makes her United States debut. The event will be held in Boston, Massachusetts from April 4 to 6, 2025. The top 5 Grand Prize winners are also invited to sail Norwegian Aqua’s three-night christening voyage from Miami, Florida on April 13, 2025.
“Giving Joy is a program near and dear to our hearts at Norwegian Cruise Line,” said David J. Herrera, President of Norwegian Cruise Line. “It is an honor to congratulate the 20 incredible educators, who passionately serve their communities, with experiences on board Norwegian Aqua. These amazing teachers are shaping the future of the next generation, and I am thrilled to be able to showcase the brand new Norwegian Aqua with them; sharing the enrichments that bridge the connection between education and travel.”
The 2024 Giving Joy contest began during Teacher Appreciation Week in May. Thousands of nominations were accepted from all over the country and Canada with winners from Connecticut, Florida, Georgia, Illinois, Indiana, Kentucky, Michigan, Minnesota, New York, Ohio, Washington, and Newfoundland, Canada.
Since its inception in 2019, Norwegian Cruise Line’s Giving Joy contest has received more than 60,000 nominations, over 1.8 million votes, awarded more than 270 vacations of a lifetime to deserving educators, and donated greater than $445,000 to teachers and their school through the cruise line’s partners. This year’s prize includes roundtrip airfare for two through a donation from Coca-Cola, beverage partner of NCL.
Norwegian Cruise Line also debuted its year-round Teacher Cruise Discount earlier this year. All education professionals receive a five percent discount off any sailing they choose in the world as well as a $50 onboard credit.
The Grand Prize winner who received the most votes were Larry Knight, Jr. from Stanton Preparatory School in Jacksonville Florida; Debra Golding from Westglades Middle School in Parkland, Florida; Shawn Miller from Loveland High School in Loveland, Ohio; Bradley Gardner from Franklin Central High School in Indianapolis, Indiana; and Nancy Altimore from City of Pembroke Pines Charter High School-Academic Village in Pembroke Pines, Florida.
If you would like to learn more about the 20 winners and read their nominations, click here.