2026 ATHENA Leadership Award® Nomination Form

The ATHENA Leadership Award®, presented by the McLean County Chamber of Commerce, is presented to a man or woman who is honored for professional excellence, community service and for actively assisting women in their attainment of professional excellence and leadership skills.


AWARD CRITERIA

The McLean County Chamber of Commerce ATHENA Leadership Award® recipients must meet the following criteria:

1. Has achieved the highest level of professional excellence.

2. Contributes time and energy to improve the quality of life for others in the community.

3. A man or woman who actively assists others, particularly women, in realizing their full leadership potential.


COMPLETING THE FORM

Nominations for the ATHENA Leadership Award® must be submitted using this nomination form by 5:00 PM on August 28, 2026. Only one nomination form per nominee will be accepted. 


**Helpful Tip: download and save a separate copy of the nomination form as you draft your responses and complete the online form when ready to submit your nomination.


SELECTION PROCESS

The McLean County Chamber of Commerce Awards Committee will review all award nominations and determine the ATHENA Leadership Award Finalists, who will be notified via email by September 4, 2026.


All finalists will be asked to submit additional supporting information for their nomination packet, which will be due by September 18, 2026.  Finalists are also required to be available for a photo shoot and be in attendance at the Leaders of Distinction Awards Reception at the Doubletree by Hilton Hotel in Bloomington, IL on November 5, 2026.


A panel of judges consisting of a diverse group of Chamber executives from across the state of Illinois will review all finalists' nominations and select the 2026 ATHENA Leadership Award® Recipient, who will be announced at the Leaders of Distinction Award Reception on November 5. 

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Nominee Information

Award Criteria

Provide specific examples of how the nominee has demonstrated excellence, creativity, and initiative in their business or profession.

Provide specific examples of how the nominee provides valuable service to improve the quality of life for others in their community. Include type and length of service in civic and service organizations and initiatives. Provide specific examples of how the nominee prioritizes involvement in McLean County Chamber of Commerce.

Provide specific examples of how the nominee has actively assisted women in achieving their full leadership potential, and/or demonstrated support for their personal and professional advancement.

Include any additional information you feel is important for consideration of your nominee. Include awards, honors, publications, articles and/or testimonials that demonstrate service to their profession, community, and, most importantly, aspiring and established women leaders.

Nominator Information