Overview

Since 2018, the Greater Waco Chamber of Commerce has proudly recognized women who exemplify leadership, vision, and impact in every corner of our community. Through the Leading Waco Women Leadership Award, we continue this tradition by honoring individuals who embody excellence in their careers, service, and support of others.

This award is presented to a woman who has achieved outstanding professional success, made meaningful contributions to the Waco community, and actively supports the advancement of other women through mentorship, advocacy, and leadership development. She leads not only by what she accomplishes, but by how she empowers others to thrive.

The award is made possible through the support of the Greater Waco Chamber of Commerce, local businesses, and individual sponsors who share a commitment to celebrating women whose leadership strengthens our region and inspires the next generation.

Nomination Requirements

Nominations will be accepted May 9 - July 24, 2026.

CRITERIA

Leading Waco Women Leadership Award Nominees must 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

QUALIFICATIONS

• Leadership Award Nominees may represent either the profit or not-for-profit sector.
• Previous ATHENA Leadership Award Recipients are not eligible for nomination, however, past nominees and finalists may be nominated for this award.
• There is no minimum or maximum age qualification.
• All nominees must be employed by an organization in good standing with the Greater Waco Chamber of Commerce.

Completing the Nomination

Please thoughtfully and thoroughly answer the questions below. They will focus on the nominee's professional excellence, meaningful contributions to our community, and their active support and empowerment of other women.
You may include supporting documents (articles, testimonials, etc) with your completed nomination form.

Deadline for submission: Friday, July 24, 2026.

The questions nominators will answer:

• Personal info for nominee: including name, business, contact information, etc.

  Professional Leadership: Provide specific examples of how the nominee has demonstrated excellence, creativity, and initiative in their business or profession.

• Community Leadership: Provide specific examples of how the nominee provides valuable service to improve the quality of life for others in our community.  Include type and length of service in civic and service organizations and initiatives.

• Personal Leadership / Mentorship: Provide specific examples of how the nominee has actively assisted women in achieving their full leadership potential and/or demonstrated support for their personal and professional advancement.

• Additional Info:  Include any additional information you feel is important for the consideration of your nominee. Include awards, honors, publications, articles and/or testimonials that demonstrate service to their profession, community, and, most importantly, aspiring and established women leaders.

Responsibilities of Nominees

 The questions nominees will be asked:

1. They will be asked to formally accept the nomination.

2. They will be asked about their professional and community service leadership and their mentorship of other women. 

The information provided by the nominee will be added to the nominator's information. Both will be given to the selection committe for consideration.

Deadline for nomincees to submit their acceptance: Friday, July 31, 2026. 

Please communiate to your nominee this deadline.