Meet The 2026 WSA-OC Board of Director Candidates

Linda Kiernan 

Running for Rear Commodore

 I would be honored to serve as Rear Commodore for the Women’s Sailing Association. I’m a former boat owner who recently returned to sailing after a 20-year break spent showing horses, during which I also served on the Las Vaqueros board for 15 years. My passion for the outdoors has extended beyond the saddle and the sea, including time as a volunteer ranger with the U.S. Forest Service in Cleveland National Forest and at Caspers Wilderness Park.

Returning to sailing has rekindled my love for the water and the camaraderie that comes with it. As Rear Commodore, I’m excited to support our on-the-water activities, encourage participation at all levels, and help build a strong, welcoming community for women sailors.

Whether it’s under sail, in the saddle, or on the trail, I’ve always believed in adventure, stewardship, and giving back—and I look forward to bringing that spirit to this role.

Regine Smet

Running for Treasurer 

I was born and raised in Belgium until the age of 16. Then, we moved to California, where I studied Biology at UCI and earned a Doctor of Optometry degree at SCCO.

For my sailing career, I learned how to sail dinghies when I was about 9. I bought my first boat, Et Voila, a Beneteau First 40.7, 3 years ago. I mostly cruised around for the first couple of years until we did the Newport to Ensenada race 2025 with all women from WSA. Since then, I have done the Catalina races hosted by LBYC on my boat.  I helped deliver Bolt, a Nelson Marek 68, back from Honolulu after the Transpac. I have been part of the crew on several other boats participating in races. 

In May, I also bought a Melges 15. With my daughter, Mathilde, we raced her in Wet Wednesdays and Long Beach race week. 

For being Treasurer of WSA-OC: I have been running three businesses for the last 30 years, two optometry offices and several rental units. I handle payroll for 18 employees, including income and expense tracking. 

Cynthia Priddy 

Running for Ship Store Director

I have been married for 30 years, and we have lived in Springfield, Virginia, Grand Junction, Colorado, and currently reside in Laguna Niguel. I have two degrees: A BS in Business and an AS in Construction Management. 

For the last 22 years, I have worked as a Construction Superintendent. Early in my professional career, I worked in Marketing Communications for a global manufacturer in Costa Mesa. I was responsible for promotional collateral and coordinated trade shows, training conferences, and corporate events nationwide. 

In addition to planning corporate events, we would often design and purchase promotional items to be handed out at these various events. 

Currently, I am an active member in WSA-OC, Oasis Sailing, Harbor 20 Fleet 1, and American Legion Yacht Club. I have many hobbies, but I have become a certified and accomplished sailboat racer. 

My goal in representing WSA-OC as a member and as the Ship Store Director is to serve the club and its members, to increase WSA-OC's market presence, build member camaraderie, and grow "brand awareness" in the greater community.

 Jeanette Jordan

Running for Membership Director 

Jeanette's love of water sports began with competitive diving as a child and later extended to water polo and surfing. 

A few years ago, she started sailing lessons at OCC's School of Sailing and Seamanship and was instantly hooked, looking for every chance to sail and enhance her skills. 

Since joining WSA-OC last year, she has taken part in on-the-water events and appreciated the chance to connect with and learn from fellow sailors. 

Jeanette is an eCommerce consultant eager to leverage her digital marketing and tech skills to contribute to WSA-OC's initiatives.