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LANSING, MI – The Lansing Regional Chamber of Commerce (LRCC) proudly hosted the 2025 ATHENA Lansing Celebration on Tuesday, December 16, 2025, at the Lansing Center. The annual luncheon brought together business, civic, and community leaders to honor women whose leadership strengthens the Greater Lansing region.


The event was emceed by Sheri Jones, former WLNS-TV6 news anchor and 2006 ATHENA Award recipient, who guided attendees through the program while reflecting on ATHENA’s enduring legacy of empowering women leaders.


Established over four decades ago, the ATHENA Leadership Award honors women who exemplify professional excellence, community service, and mentorship. The award recognizes leaders whose vision and impact create opportunities for other women to grow professionally and personally.


Rebecca Bahar-Cook, CEO of Capitol Fundraising Associates, was named the 2025 ATHENA Leadership Award recipient. She was recognized for her professional achievements, commitment to mentoring emerging leaders, and dedication to strengthening her community. Prior to the event, Bahar-Cook’s recognition plaque was unveiled as the 44th addition to the ATHENA Hall of Fame located near the front entrance of the Lansing Center.

“The ATHENA Leadership Award recognizes women who have achieved the highest levels of professional excellence while opening doors of opportunity for other women,” said Tim Daman, President and CEO of the Lansing Regional Chamber of Commerce. “ Rebecca Bahar-Cook embodies these qualities, showing how leadership, mentorship, and community engagement can transform our region.”


The celebration also highlighted the ATHENA PowerLink® Award, a national mentoring initiative that connects women business owners with expert advisory panels to support strategic growth, operational goals, and leadership development.


Jacqueline Taylor, owner of Little Dreamers Early Learning Center, was recognized as the 2025 ATHENA PowerLink® Award recipient. Taylor shared how her advisory panel provided critical guidance and mentorship that contributed to her business’s continued growth. Her advisory panel included Heather Kim (Rathbun Insurance), Cyrina Thomas (Lansing Economic Area Partnership – LEAP), Angelique DuPhene (InVerve Marketing), Jessica Fleet (Maner Costerisan), Alissa Parks (HRS), and Gabrielle Lawrence (Foster Swift Collins & Smith).


The 2026 ATHENA PowerLink® Award recipient, Lillian Werbin, CEO and Co-Owner of Elderly Instruments, was also announced. Werbin will work with her advisory panel throughout 2026, benefiting from their collaborative approach and strategic mentorship to support the next phase of her business growth. She and her panel will be formally highlighted at next year’s ATHENA Lansing Celebration.

Applications for the 2027 ATHENA PowerLink® Award are open through February 13, 2026. Complete application details and eligibility requirements are available on the Lansing Regional Chamber of Commerce website: 2027 ATHENA PowerLink® Award.


About the Lansing Regional Chamber of Commerce: The Lansing Regional Chamber of Commerce works to help businesses connect, grow, and thrive. For nearly 125 years, the Chamber has served as the voice of the Greater Lansing business community. More information about the Chamber and its programs and services can be found online at https://www.lansingchamber.org/