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Do you know someone whose leadership has made a lasting difference in Western New York?

The Buffalo Niagara Partnership is now accepting nominations for the 2026 ATHENA Leadership Award, which will be presented at the second annual BNP Leading Women event later this fall The award recognizes an individual whose professional excellence, community service and commitment to advancing women have made a lasting impact throughout Western New York.

Last year, the BNP presented the ATHENA Leadership Award to Beth Hollis, vice president of variable operations at West Herr Auto Group, in recognition of her extraordinary leadership, mentorship and service to the community.

If you know someone whose leadership deserves to be recognized, we encourage you to submit a nomination. Nominations must be received by Thursday, Sept. 10.

Submit your nomination: 2026 ATHENA Leadership Award nomination form →

What is the ATHENA Leadership Award?

Presented in partnership with ATHENA International, the ATHENA Leadership Award honors individuals who lead with excellence while creating opportunities for others to succeed. In addition to recognizing professional achievement, the award celebrates leaders who invest in their communities and actively support the advancement of women.

More than 7,000 awards have been presented in over 500 communities in the United States and across the world since the program’s inception in 1982.

The BNP presents the award annually during its Leading Women event, which brings together leaders from across the region to share experiences, build connections and celebrate the women shaping the future of Buffalo Niagara.

Who is eligible?

Nominees may represent either the profit or nonprofit sector and come from any industry as long as they have a meaningful connection to the Western New York community. Past nominees may be nominated again.

The individual nominated should who meet each of the following three criteria:

• Demonstrate excellence, creativity and initiative in their business or profession
• Provide valuable service to improve the quality of life for others in their community
• Actively assist women in achieving their full leadership potential

How does the selection process work?

Once nominations close on Sept. 10, submissions will be reviewed by the BNP Leading Women Seeding Committee. The 2026 recipient will be selected through a confidential evaluation process based on the ATHENA Leadership Award criteria.

The recipient will be announced and honored during the 2026 BNP Leading Women event on Nov. 11.

Nominate an inspiring leader

You are encouraged to work closely with your nominee to complete their nomination. Nominations for the ATHENA Leadership Award must be submitted using the below form and format. You may attach supporting documents with your completed form.

Nominations close: 5 p.m. on Thursday, Sept. 10

Submit a nomination today: ATHENA Leadership Award nomination form