In the Beginning

In 1982, Martha Mertz, owner of Mayhood/Mertz Realtors, Inc., found herself to be the only female member of the Lansing, Michigan Chamber of Commerce Board of Directors.

She resolved to recognize the outstanding professional women in her community and to encourage the opening of leadership opportunities for them. Thus, the ATHENA Award® Program was born.

The ATHENA Award’s focus on mentorship distinguishes it from other awards recognizing women in business.

By honoring exceptional leaders, the ATHENA Award Program inspires others to achieve personal and professional excellence. Each Recipient receives a handcrafted ATHENA Award sculpture, with a unique design inspired by the Greek Goddess Athena, who represents courage and wisdom guided by reason.

Learn more about the ATHENA Leadership Model.