DeKalb Chamber Honours Women Leaders at 36th ATHENA Awards

The DeKalb Chamber of Commerce is set to celebrate women’s leadership with the upcoming ATHENA Award Reception on October 16, 2023, at the Egyptian Theatre in DeKalb. This annual event recognizes influential women for their achievements in professional excellence, community service, and their commitment to mentoring others.

The evening will honor recipients of two prestigious awards: the ATHENA Award and the Woman of Accomplishment. The ATHENA Award is part of a global program that highlights women who excel in their fields while also empowering others. The Woman of Accomplishment award, which originated from the DeKalb Chamber of Commerce, acknowledges retired women who have significantly impacted their careers and continue to contribute to their communities.

Since its inception in 1995, this marks the 36th annual award reception. Over the last 30 years, the event has celebrated 35 ATHENA recipients and over 70 Women of Accomplishment, all of whom have left a lasting legacy through their mentorship and dedication to community service.

The Marketing and Events Manager at the DeKalb Chamber of Commerce expressed her enthusiasm for working alongside past recipients and this year’s finalists. She noted, “Every year, I am impressed and inspired by the level of impact the women make on our community, and this year is no different.”

The event will feature notable finalists including Devyn Grzywa from FNBO, Dr. Donna Larson of DeKalb High School, Rylie Loucks-Kues from the Family Service Agency of DeKalb County, and Linda Sherman of Oak Crest DeKalb Area Retirement Center. Additionally, Kathy Dombek and Donna Willrett will be recognized as Women of Accomplishment. The 2023 ATHENA recipient will be announced live during the ceremony.

Tickets for the event are available for $25 and can be purchased online at dekalb.org or at the door on the night of the event. The DeKalb community is invited to attend and celebrate the accomplishments of these remarkable women.

The fall season for the DeKalb Chamber of Commerce does not end with the ATHENA Awards. Following the reception, the Chamber will host the inaugural Trades Exploration Day on October 22, 2023, from 15:30 to 18:00 at DeKalb High School, providing an opportunity for local youth to explore various trades. Additionally, the annual Spooktacular Downtown DeKalb trick-or-treating event will take place on October 28, 2023, from 16:00 to 18:00, welcoming families to enjoy a festive atmosphere.

For more information about the ATHENA Awards and upcoming events, visit dekalb.org or follow the DeKalb Chamber of Commerce on social media platforms such as Facebook, Instagram, and LinkedIn. The Chamber is committed to fostering a supportive community that values and promotes women’s leadership and engagement.