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 6,000 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.
Nominations are open now through Friday, August 8th, 2025!
2023-2024 ATHENA Leadership Award RecipientsÂ
2024 Award Recipient Jane Mitchell
Jane Mitchell, owner of Jungle Jane Promotions was awarded the prestigious ATHENA Leadership Award.
Jane is a key figure in her community, playing an active role on the board of Ele's Place - Capital Region. She is also a proud member of the Lansing Regional Chamber of Commerce and the Delta-Waverly Rotary Club, where she has dedicated over 20 years of service. Jane's success stems from her relentless hard work and her unwavering commitment to empowering those around her and helping their businesses thrive.
2023 Award Recipient Julie Pingston
Julie Pingston, President & CEO of Choose Lansing was awarded the prestigious ATHENA Leadership Award.Â
Julie has served Choose Lansing for 31 years and was named CEO in March 2020. The region welcomes over 5.3 million visitors annually generating over $682 million to the local economy. Choose Lansing promotes the destination to meeting and sports event planners as well as to all types of travelers seeking to experience the diverse opportunities the community offers.
PAST ATHENA Leadership Award RecipientsÂ
- 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
ATHENA Leadership Award 2025 Information
- Nominations open Tuesday, May 20th
- Nominations close Friday, August 8th
- Recipient will be announced at the ATHENA WIN Evening of Empowerment