Celebrating the potential of all women as community leaders and recognizing those who support them
ATHENA Leadership Award Â
The ATHENA Leadership Award was created in 1982 by Martha Mertz, former president of the Lansing Regional Chamber of Commerce. It has spread worldwide with more than 8,500 awards presented in over 500 communities in the United States, Canada, China, Russia, United Arab Emirates, and United Kingdom. The ATHENA Award honors individuals who strive towards the highest levels of professional accomplishment, excel in their chosen field, have devoted time and energy to their community, and pave paths for other women to follow. It also celebrates the potential of all women as leaders of the community and recognizes those who support them.
2025-2026 ATHENA Leadership Award RecipientsÂ
2026 Award Recipient Robyn Howell
Robyn Howell, executive vice president and chief operating officer of LAFCU, was named the 2026 ATHENA Leadership Award recipient. Since joining LAFCU in 2017 as human resources manager, Howell has risen through several leadership roles to her current position, where she works alongside the CEO and board of directors to advance organizational strategy and operational effectiveness. She serves on the LRCC Board of Directors, is vice chair of the Boys & Girls Club of Lansing Board of Directors and was named a Crain's Detroit Business Notable Black Business Leader in 2024.
2025 Award Recipient Rebecca Bahar-Cook
Rebecca Bahar-Cook’s roots run deep in the East Lansing community. A proud Michigan State University graduate (B.A. ’92), she and her husband Todd have also raised two MSU graduates. She currently serves on the MSU Board of Trustees and remains actively involved on nearly ten other boards and committees.
A true powerhouse, Bahar-Cook’s career is defined by strategy, mentorship, and an unwavering commitment to community. As CEO of Capitol Fundraising Associates (CFA), she leads efforts that help nonprofits raise philanthropic dollars more effectively, creating lasting impact where it matters most.
PAST ATHENA Leadership Award RecipientsÂ
- 2025 - Rebecca Bahar-Cook
- 2024 - Jane Mitchell
- 2023 - Julie Pingston
- 2022 - Dorothy E. Maxwell
- 2021 - Michelle Massey
- 2020 - Elaine Hardy
- 2019 - Karen Grannemann
- 2018 - Suzie Merchant
- 2017 - April Clobes
- 2016 - Joan Jackson Johnson
- 2015 - Sarah Jennings
- 2014 -Dr. June Pierce Youatt
- 2013 - Kelly Rossman-Mckinney
- 2012 - Stella Cash
- 2011 - Nancy McKeague
- 2010 -Nell Kuhnmuench
- 2009 - Tiffany Dowling
- 2008 - Rachelle Neal
- 2007 - Paula Blanchard-Stone
- 2006 - Sheri Jones
- 2005 - Paula Cunningham
- 2004 - Lou Anna K. Simon
- 2003 - Theda Rudd
- 2002 - Carol Conn
- 2001 - Mary Ellen Sheets
- Â 2000 - Virginia Hilbert
- 1999 - Suzanne Beekman Mills
- 1998 - Sandra Draggoo
- 1997 - Marianne E. Samper
- 1996 - Joan E. Bauer
- 1995 - Priscilla J. Peterson
- 1994 - Helen Pratt Mickens
- 1993 -Dawn. E. Springer
- 1992 - Patrick D. Hanes
- 1991 - Eva Evans, Ph.D.
- 1990 - Sen. Debbie StabenowÂ
- 1989 - Mildred EricksonÂ
- 1988 - Hortense G. Canady. Ph.D.
- 1987 - Marcia Jensen Spence
- 1986 - Martha Mertz
- 1985 - Alyson W. Steele
- 1984 - Sister Mary Janice Belen
- 1983 - Lucille E. Belen
- 1982 - Dr. MaryLee Davis