BNP Leading Women recognizes Sheri Scavone as 2026 ATHENA Leadership Award recipient
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The Buffalo Niagara Partnership recognized Sheri Scavone as the 2026 ATHENA Leadership Award recipient during BNP Leading Women on October 28 at BNP @ the Cobblestone.
Hosted alongside the Leading Women Host Committee, the event brought together women shaping Western New York’s future for an afternoon of connection and celebration. At the heart of the program was the ATHENA Leadership Award, honoring an individual who opens doors and creates tangible opportunities for women across the region.
Celebrating Sheri’s Leadership
Scavone’s approach to leadership centers on doing what is right and creating opportunities for others.
“My leadership journey has been guided by a simple principle: Do the right thing, even when it isn’t the easy thing,” she shared.
In reflecting on her journey, Scavone emphasized that leadership is measured by the barriers leaders remove and the doors they hold open for those who follow. That commitment reflects the spirit of the ATHENA Leadership Award and its focus on helping women reach their potential.
Celebrating this year’s finalists
The event also recognized three ATHENA finalists, each bringing a distinct perspective on leadership:
- Andrea H. Vossler: Emphasized expanding access to capital, mentorship and opportunity for women and the region.
- Cara Matteliano: Reflected on 35 years in Buffalo and her commitment to helping people recognize what they can accomplish together, even when the challenges seem difficult.
- Catherine Roberts: Described leading with courage and compassion, staying grounded in her values and ensuring that her success creates opportunities for others.
Together, their reflections highlighted the many ways leaders can support women and strengthen the communities they serve.
The BNP congratulates Scavone and this year’s finalists, and thanks the Leading Women Host Committee, patron sponsors and Leading Women Award Sponsor West Herr Automotive Group for supporting the event.