2016 ATHENA Awards Celebration

Over 500 attended the 27th annual ATHENA Awards Celebration on September 15, 2016 for a luncheon steeped in the ATHENA tenets—from Celebration & Joy to Learning, from Authentic Self to Fierce Advocacy. The event included two award presentations and the granting of $4,250 total scholarships to five women over 30 pursuing degrees. Read a 2016 recap with event photos here.

2016 ATHENA Young Professional Award

Congratulations to Stacy Stout, assistant to Grand Rapids’ City Manager! She was announced the 2016 ATHENA Young Professional Award recipient at today’s ATHENA Awards luncheon.

“I believe it is my purpose on this planet to push for change and challenge the status quo,” she said during her acceptance speech and talking about her role as a fierce advocate and taking courageous acts.

2016 ATHENA Award Recipient

Shelley Irwin, host/producer of The WGVU Morning Show with Shelley Irwin and several local PBS shows, is the 2016 ATHENA Grand Rapids Award recipient!

We are thrilled to recognize her leadership, mentorship, and many remarkable contributions to the greater Grand Rapids community. Not to mention boundless energy and positive nature elevating all those around her!

Congratulations to all our 2016 finalists!

2016 ATHENA Award Finalists

Mina Breuker, Holland Home

Maria Erazo, Maria Erazo Agency

Jennifer Maxson, Varnum Consulting

Peaches McCahill, The McCahill Group

Michelle Rabideau, Saint Mary’s Foundation

Julie Sielawa, YMCA of Greater Grand Rapids

Sandi Steensma, Kennari Consulting

Michele Suchovsky, Grand Rapids Student Advancement Foundation

Carroll Velie, Varnum LLP

2016 ATHENA Young Professional Award Finalists

Carlye Allen, East Grand Rapids Public Schools

Lisa Anderson, Grace’s Table

Mercedes Barragan, Spectrum Health

Afton DeVos, Kids’ Food Basket

Sonja Forte, Baxter Community Center

Rachel Hood, Chase Park Grants

Celeste Sanchez Lloyd, Spectrum Health – Strong Beginnings

Sara Marie Moylan, Shefit, Inc.

Stacy Stout, City of Grand Rapids

Amanda Williams, Williams Distributing/Kitchen & Bath