Empowering Change: Celebrating the 2025 ATHENA Award Champions
Inspiring Words to Propel Forward
Feeling lost while navigating significant career and life changes can be overwhelming. But at the heart of these journeys is simplicity and persistence. “You don’t need the whole map to make the next step,” Tami Galbreath reminded attendees at the Women in Networking Leading Ladies Luncheon, held Thursday in Kankakee County. This simple yet profound thought resonates as we celebrate this year’s ATHENA Award recipients.
Recognizing Trailblazers and Changemakers
The ceremony this year, hosted at Bourbonnais’ Adventure Commons and organized by the Kankakee County Chamber of Commerce, was not just about presenting awards, it was a moment of reflection and inspiration. Jamie Freedlund, awarded the prestigious ATHENA Leadership Award, stands as a testimony to excellence in professional, community, and personal spheres. A beacon of support during times of distress, Freedlund’s involvement with Mattea’s Joy underscores her commitment to making a difference.
Building Momentum for Future Leaders
Megan Campbell, honored with the ATHENA Young Professional Award, exemplifies the emerging leadership imperative for the upcoming generations. Her strides in mental health through Rise and Thrive Wellness echo the essence of transformative leadership and commitment to community well-being. According to Shaw Local, she leads a team that has provided over a thousand therapy sessions without financial burdens on clients.
Nurturing Growth through Education
The Women in Networking Scholarship fortifies the pillars for academic pursuit. Awarded to Anne King, the scholarship aids working women in pursuit of higher education, exemplifying perseverance and resilience. King’s journey from homemaker to a crisis counselor, coupled with her academic pursuits alongside her son, offers a poignant tale of ambition powered by personal tragedy and determination.
Unfurling the Many Facets of Leadership
Each recipient’s story is a testament to the harmony of bold decisions and introspection. The importance of “mindful moments,” as emphasized by Galbreath, is to ensure that amidst our pursuits, we remain aware and aligned with our true selves. Bold moves and self-awareness, these dual forces shape not just careers, but lives.
Conclusion: A Vision for Tomorrow
The 2025 ATHENA Award celebration has painted a vivid picture of leadership interwoven with compassion and diligence. As we honor these remarkable women, it’s more than a celebration; it’s a testament to the paths they’ve paved, the doors they’ve unlocked, and the aspirations they continue to inspire. Through their stories, we are ushered into the possibilities of change and continuity in carrying forward the spirit of empowerment.
