The Greater Hazleton Chamber of Commerce is now accepting nominations for the annual, nationally-recognized “Athena Award,” celebrating the extraordinary impact of women in business across the Greater Hazleton area. Nomination forms and notices have been distributed to over 1,000 Chamber member contacts and are also available at the Chamber office and online at www.hazletonchamber.org.

Presented each year to the “Businesswoman of the Year,” the Athena Award honors a woman whose leadership, vision, and professional excellence have made a lasting impact on her organization and the regional business community. As part of a prestigious international program, the Athena Award highlights the vital role women play in driving innovation, strengthening workplaces, and shaping the economic future of their communities.

The award, featuring a distinguished bronze and crystal sculpture, will be presented at the Chamber’s Annual Meeting and is proudly sponsored by Lehigh Valley Hospital–Hazleton.

Nominees should exemplify the highest level of professional accomplishment, demonstrating outstanding leadership, dedication, and success in their field. While many recipients are also active in their communities, the Athena Award is specifically designed to recognize women’s achievements and influence within the workplace and business environment.

Any woman employed by a Chamber member firm is eligible for nomination. Submissions may be made by employers, colleagues, or members of the community and must be received by the Chamber prior to the April 17 nomination deadline. Finalists will be contacted to provide additional information for consideration by the Athena judging panel.

Official nomination forms can be obtained by contacting the Greater Hazleton Chamber of Commerce at 570-455-1509 or by emailing Mary Malone at . While official forms are encouraged, they are not required. Nominations may also be submitted by providing the nominee’s name, place of employment, position, and a brief statement highlighting her professional achievements and impact. Each submission must include the name and contact phone number of the individual making the nomination.

Chamber President Mary Malone stated, “The Athena Award is more than a recognition—it is a celebration of the powerful influence women have in shaping our business community and inspiring the next generation of leaders. We are proud to continue our partnership with Lehigh Valley Hospital–Hazleton in presenting this internationally-respected honor.”

Photo caption:
Lisa Marie Halecky, LVH–Hazleton Manager of Community and Media Engagement, Vital Choice, and BOA Liaison, represents the 2026 award sponsor. Lisa Marie was also recognized as the 36th recipient of the Athena Award at the Chamber’s Annual Meeting in 2024.