The Greater Phoenix Chamber announced the 11 women chosen as finalists for its prestigious 39th annual ATHENA Awards, continuing its strong tradition of recognizing outstanding Valley businesswomen. 

The ATHENA Businesswoman of the Year Award recognizes a woman in the public and private sectors and highlights an upcoming leader in the Valley as an ATHENA young professional.  ATHENA finalists are chosen among dozens of nominations for their excellence in business and leadership, dedication to the community, and support and mentorship of others. Congratulations to all the 2026 ATHENA nominees!

WOMEN IN BUSINESS: The Most Influential Women in Arizona for 2026

WOMEN IN REAL ESTATE: The Most Influential Women in Commercial Real Estate for 2026

The 11 finalists are:

Private Sector

  • Kathy Gallowitz, LtCol, USAF, Retired, President & CEO, Vanguard Veteran  
  • 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

  • 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

  • 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)

“Each year, the ATHENA Awards give us the opportunity to recognize exceptional women whose leadership, service, and mentorship are strengthening the Greater Phoenix business community,” said Todd Sanders, President & CEO of the Greater Phoenix Chamber. “These finalists represent the vision, dedication, and impact that continue to move our region forward. We look forward to celebrating their achievements this October and honoring the meaningful difference they are making across Arizona.”

The ATHENA Awards highlight women who have achieved the pinnacle of success within their industry, have mentored others throughout their careers, dedicated their time to their community, and are making a difference in the lives of others. 

Join the Greater Phoenix Chamber to celebrate outstanding businesswomen in our community and to support all nominees, finalists, and recipients, past and present.

WHO: Three ATHENA Award recipients will be announced during the Greater Phoenix Chamber’s ATHENA Awards Luncheon.

WHEN: Thursday, October 29th | 10:30 a.m. to 1:00 p.m. 

WHERE: JW Marriott Desert Ridge Resort & Spa

REGISTER: Register here | Registration closes on Wednesday, October 21st  

QUESTIONS: Email events@phoenixchamber.com with any questions.

HASHTAG: #PHXATHENA2026