Greater Phoenix Chamber's ATHENA Awards
Date and Time
Thursday Oct 29, 2026
10:30 AM - 1:00 PM MST
Check-in & networking: 10:30-11 a.m.
Program: 11 a.m.-1:00 p.m.
Location
JW Marriott Phoenix Desert Ridge Resort & Spa
5350 E. Marriott Dr.
Phoenix, AZ 85054
Fees/Admission
Chamber members (individual): $175
Non-members (individual): $200
Member table of 10: $1,750
Non-member table of 10: $2,000
Contact Information
Events Team
Send Email
Description
Celebrate with us as we honor 11 outstanding businesswomen at the 39th Annual Greater Phoenix Chamber’s ATHENA Awards Luncheon.
The ATHENA Awards, an internationally prized honor, recognize the achievement of businesswomen across the Greater Phoenix region.
Over the past 38 years, 74 accomplished and compassionate Valley businesswomen have earned the title of ATHENA. Their contributions to our business community are immeasurable and help propel Phoenix forward. ATHENAs are challenged across industries to continue their dedication to leading, serving, and mentoring. The award highlights three women every year who are at the top of their field and who invest in their careers, their community, and especially other women.
ATHENAs demonstrate inspiring leadership within their industry, mentor women throughout their career, and dedicate themselves to the community.
Register today for this celebration of achievement and perseverance!
Private Sector finalists:
- Kathy Gallowitz, LtCol, USAF, Retired, President & CEO, Vanguard Veteran, LLC
- Ann Meyers Drysdale, Broadcaster, Olympian & Hall of Fame, Phoenix Suns & Phoenix Mercury
- Karrin Taylor Robson, Founder & President, Arizona Strategies
- Alexi Venneri, Co-founder & CEO, DAS Technology
Public Sector finalists:
- Kim Despres, CEO, Circle the City
- Fran Mallace, President & CEO, Make-A-Wish Arizona
- Janice Palmer, Senior Vice President, Government Affairs and Public Policy, Helios Education Foundation
- Donna Taylor, Chief Operating Officer, Beatitudes Campus
Young Professional finalists:
- Nicole Campillo Penagos, Economic Development & Government Affairs Specialist, Arizona Diamondbacks
- Rachelle Giles, Vice President, Local Government Relations and Association Management, Goodman Schwartz Public Affairs
- Lauren Smith, Director of Community Engagement, Southwest Autism Research & Resource Center (SARRC)
Elevate your company’s exposure in support of the ATHENA finalists through event sponsorship and program ads! Don’t miss the opportunity to showcase your company while hosting your clients and colleagues at this inspirational event. View sponsorship options. Contact Janelle Tassart at jtassart@phoenixchamber.com to secure your sponsorship or ad today!
Registration for this event closes on Wednesday, October 21st at 5 p.m. Payments must be made in advance, and no refunds will be given for cancellations made within 72 hours of the event.
