2026 Athena Application Form

Be sure to thoroughly read & review the ATHENA Leadership Award Guidelines and Nomination Process before proceeding. ATHENA Guidelines

The nominee must be available to attend the Excellence Awards Luncheon on May 12th. The 2026 ATHENA Award will be announced at the luncheon.

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* 1. General Information

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* 2. Please complete the questions below on a Word document and then use the Choose File option to upload your document. Be sure to number (#) the answers to correspond to the questions below.

PROFESSIONAL EXCELLENCE
QUESTION 1: Maximum 400 Words (40 Points)
What examples showcase excellence, creativity, and initiative in leadership, achievements, and professional affiliations, while also exemplifying and personifying the highest level of excellence in the nominee's profession? Be sure to provide specific examples.

EVIDENCE/DOCUMENTATION 1 REQUIRED: Resume - you will be prompted to upload this below.
A resume or vita outlining the nominee's work history, community service, awards, and other achievements to provide a clear picture of their qualifications.

COMMUNITY SERVICE
Question 2: Maximum 400 Words (40 Points)
Describe community contributions, including the investment of time, talent, and resources. Provide specific examples of contributions to programs, policies, and/or initiatives addressing community issues, and explain how these efforts improved or advanced the organization or initiative.

EMPOWERING OTHERS
Question 3: Maximum 350 Words (30 Points)
How has the nominee mentored and supported others, particularly females, by creating opportunities, encouraging growth, and advocating for advancement? Provide specific examples of mentorship, coaching, or volunteer efforts that demonstrate a commitment to fostering leadership potential and/or career development.

ACHIEVEMENT
Question 4: Maximum 300 Words (15 Points)
What achievement is the nominee most proud of, and how does it demonstrate courageous leadership, advocacy, and dedication to their causes?

DOCUMENTATION 2: One Page Letter of Recommendation (5 Points) You will be prompted to upload this below
Include one letter of recommendation that demonstrates service to their profession, community and other aspiring and established leaders, particularly women or girls. In addition, you may include any information you feel is important for consideration of the nominee.

Other information requested - You will be prompted to upload this below.
· Professional Bio (300 Words)
· Professional headshot

Upload Word Document with the responses for questions 1-4.

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* 3. Upload Resume

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* 4. One Page Letter of Recommendation

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* 5. Professional Bio (300 words max)

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* 6. Professional Headshot/Photo

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* 7. 2026 Excellence Awards Information

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