Nominations Open For Triangle East ATHENA International Leadership Award

The Triangle East Chamber of Commerce is pleased to announce nominations are now being accepted for the 37th annual Triangle East ATHENA International Leadership Award. This is the highest recognition bestowed by the Chamber.

The award will be presented on October 9, 2025 to an exceptional individual who has achieved excellence in her business or profession, has served the community in a meaningful way and has assisted women in their attainment of professional goals and leadership skills.

The ATHENA Award was first presented in 1982 in Lansing, Michigan and has grown to 

include presentations to more than 8,200 individuals in hundreds of cities around the world. Recipients include C-level executives of major corporations, presidents of universities and foundations, a NASA astronaut, human rights and social justice activists, philanthropists, olympic gold medalists, members of congress, and highest ranking military professionals.

The Triangle East Chamber began presenting this award because of its emphasis on mentorship. “There are many awards that recognize people for their professional accomplishments,” said Maureen McGuinness, President and CEO of the Triangle East Chamber of Commerce. “The ATHENA International Leadership Award goes a step further. It honors women who are helping other women grow into leadership roles and succeed alongside them.”

When submitting a nomination consider the following:

Has this woman broken barriers in her profession or community?

We are looking for trailblazers—those who have stepped into leadership roles where women are underrepresented or who have created new opportunities for others to follow.

Has she been a mentor to other women?

ATHENA leaders lift others as they rise. Think about how she has invested in the growth and success of women around her—whether through formal mentorship or informal guidance.

Is she committed to volunteerism and community service?

Community involvement is a cornerstone of the ATHENA philosophy. The ideal nominee is someone whose leadership extends beyond her workplace and into the broader community.

Nominations will be accepted through July 18, 2025 . Nominations can be submitted here or by contacting the Triangle East Chamber of Commerce at 919.934.9166 or info@triangleeastchamber.com. 

A list of past recipients can be found here.