Description

2026 ATHENA Leadership Awards

Honoring Excellence in Leadership and Empowering Women of the Roanoke Region

Date: November 12, 2026
Time: 11:30 a.m. - 1:00 p.m.
Location: Hotel Roanoke & Conference Center, Roanoke, VA

The ATHENA Leadership Awards are one of the most prestigious awards, recognizing outstanding leadership and dedication to empowering women in business and community service. In partnership with the Roanoke Regional Chamber of Commerce, we are excited to bring this important event to Virginia’s Blue Ridge, a region that celebrates the strength, innovation, and resilience of its women leaders.

This year, we’ll be honoring exceptional women in two categories:

• ATHENA Leadership Award – Celebrating women who have achieved the highest levels of professional accomplishment while giving back to their communities and actively investing in the success of future leaders.
• ATHENA Young Professional Award – Honoring rising women leaders under the age of 40 who are making a significant impact early in their careers and setting the standard for leadership, service, and vision.

2026 ATHENA Leadership Award Nominees

We are proud to recognize the following outstanding women who have been nominated for the 2026 ATHENA Leadership Award:

2026 ATHENA Young Professional Award Nominees

We are also thrilled to recognize the following emerging leaders nominated for the 2026 ATHENA Young Professional Award:

About the ATHENA Awards

The ATHENA Leadership Awards are presented in communities across the globe and honor individuals who have demonstrated exceptional leadership qualities and are dedicated to inspiring and empowering others. The awards celebrate not only professional accomplishments but also an individual’s commitment to fostering mentorship, community service, and social change.

The ATHENA Awards program holds special meaning in Virginia’s Blue Ridge. Here, we have an opportunity to recognize the women who contribute to shaping our region’s businesses, non-profits, and community efforts. From entrepreneurs to educators, activists to corporate leaders, the women of our region embody the spirit of the ATHENA Awards, making this event a truly inspiring celebration of excellence and leadership.