Annual Program
AthenaAwards
Honoring Medina County leaders who achieve professional excellence, give back to their community, and actively help women reach their full leadership potential.
Presented Tuesday, November 10, 2026 · Co-hosted by the Greater Medina Chamber of Commerce and WJ Creative Studio
About the Award
The Medina Chamber of Commerce and WJ Creative Studio proudly host the Athena Awards, honoring exceptional leaders who have made remarkable contributions to their careers and communities. Modeled on the international ATHENA Leadership Award, this recognition celebrates individuals, of any gender, who lead with excellence, serve their community, and actively help women reach their full leadership potential.
Many honorees are accomplished women leaders. Others are the mentors, sponsors, and allies, women and men alike, who open doors and clear the path for the women rising behind them. Through these awards we celebrate individual achievement while advancing women in every field, uplifting and empowering the next generation of leaders across Medina County.
Event Details
Date
Tuesday, November 10, 2026
Location
4931 Nettleton Road, Medina, OH, 44256
Format
Annual ceremony, soft drinks, appetizers, program, and complimentary wine
Registration
Required, walk-ins not permitted
Pricing
Cancellations
Must cancel by 5:00 PM on the Tuesday before the event for a credit. No-shows will be billed.
Selection Criteria
Professional Excellence
Demonstrates the highest level of professional excellence, creativity, and initiative in their business or profession.
Community Service
Provides valuable service that improves the quality of life for others across Medina County.
Advancing Women
Actively helps women reach their full leadership potential, through mentorship, sponsorship, and opening doors. This is the heart of the award, and nominees of any gender qualify.
Enlightened Leadership
Leads by ATHENA's model of enlightened leadership, building inclusive environments where everyone can thrive.
Two Ways to Be Honored
Know someone in Medina County who leads with excellence and lifts women up along the way? Nominate them in whichever category fits, using the official 2026 form below.
ATHENA Leadership Award
For an established leader with a proven record of professional excellence, community service, and championing women's advancement.
Download Nomination Form (PDF) →ATHENA Young Professional Award
For an emerging leader early in their career who already lives out ATHENA's leadership principles and lifts others as they rise.
Download Nomination Form (PDF) →Sponsorship Opportunities
The Athena Awards offer sponsorship packages at various levels, putting your brand in front of Medina County's most engaged business and community leaders. Contact Jaclyn to learn about available opportunities.
Contact Jaclyn →Questions About Nominating?
Not sure whether someone qualifies, or which category fits best? Reach out to the Chamber and we'll walk you through the nomination process and deadlines.
Get in Touch →