The Naples Yacht Club boasts a long history of leadership, with commodore as the highest rank. Now, Kathy Parks King is stepping into that role and making history.
"The founding fathers did a good job of sending the commodores to commodore school," King said.
King breaks the mold as the first female commodore in the club's 78-year history.
"Never in a million years would I have ever even dreamt this is where I would have ended up," King said. "We've had a huge culture change since 1947. Women are far more prominent in today's world."
No matter the weather, King is drawn to the water. It's only natural that her career anchored her to the Naples Bay.
"I think it [the water] made me feel very connected to the world around me," King said. "I'm truly honored to be given this opportunity."
While the spotlight is on her, she hopes to shine that light on others.
"I've always enjoyed watching people do their best to become the best person they can be," King said. "It's more than just boating or sailing or whatever we do. It's all about the enjoyment of the world around you and the people around you."
So, while seas never made for a skilled sailor, Parks is happy to enjoy the ride.