October 21, 2014 – Muncie, IN – Shafer Leadership Academy board member Joann McKinney and Emergence alumna Kristen Bitzegaio were recently selected as finalists for the 2014 ATHENA Awards, which celebrates the potential of all women as valued members and leaders of our community and recognizes those who support them. The Catalyst for Empowering Women & ATHENA Awards Luncheon was held on October 15th at the Horizon Convention Center.
Joann McKinney was one of seven nominees for the ATHENA Leadership Award. She currently serves as the President/CEO of the Horizon Convention Center where she has been a catalyst in assisting with the development of the ARC Hotel/Training Center in downtown Muncie. She has low staff turnover because she empowers and motivates her staff and creates an environment where success is rewarded. Joann serves on numerous committees and boards, including the Shafer Leadership Academy. Joann is a true leader, going above and beyond to problem solve, and work to ensure others grow and develop in to community minded leaders.
Kristen Bitzegaio was one of five nominees for the ATHENA Young Professional Leadership Award. She is the Community Engagement Coordinator for Indiana Public Radio. In her role, she helps to spotlight not-for-profit organizations and secured a grant to cover the funding. She organized a very successful cookbook fundraiser for Tri Kappa and managed to raise over $5000. Kristen is also a graduate of the 9th Emergence leadership training course offered by Shafer Leadership Academy. She is well known for mentoring students, nominating peers for awards, and sending handwritten congratulatory notes.
Women in Business Unlimited is the local host organization for the ATHENA Awards Program. Each year WIBU solicits nominations, and a panel of judges from outside of Delaware County selects the recipients. All nominees were recognized and the recipients were announced at the ATHENA Awards Luncheon. The ATHENA Awards Program is part of ATHENA International, whose mission is to support, honor, and develop women leaders.
Shafer Leadership Academy would like to congratulate Joann and Kristen on being recognized for their outstanding leadership within the community.