Upcoming Events

2026 RUTHERFORD ATHENA Alumni Celebration

A Note About the 2026 ATHENA Program Year
As part of an intentional transition to a biennial awards format, the Rutherford ATHENA Awards will return in 2027.

In 2026, we are proud to continue the ATHENA mission by hosting a special ATHENA Alumni Celebration focused on connection, mentorship, and leadership beyond the title.

Join us for a special afternoon as we honor the legacy of leadership in our community. As part of our transition to a biennial awards schedule, 2026 is dedicated to re-engaging our incredible network of past ATHENA nominees and recipients. We invite you to celebrate the women who lead through service, mentorship, and influence, moving beyond titles to make a lasting impact.

EVENT DETAILS

Our Mission: All proceeds from this event directly benefit the 2027 ATHENA Scholarship, ensuring that we continue to invest in the next generation of trailblazing women.

ABOUT THE ATHENA AWARD

The ATHENA Award®, named for the strong, enlightened goddess, goes to individuals who excel in their professions, give back to their communities, and help develop other leaders, especially women. 

Today, ATHENA International is a global program. 

Since the program’s inception, more than 7,000 awards have been presented in over 500 communities in the United States, Canada, China, Russia, the United Arab Emirates, and the United Kingdom.

The ATHENA Leadership Model® was developed through a grant from the W.K. Kellogg Foundation and identifies eight distinct attributes that are reflective of women’s contributions to leadership.

Nominees for the Rutherford ATHENA and Young Professional Awards must
live or work in Rutherford County.

If the nominee lives outside of Rutherford County, she must work in Rutherford County.