The late Supreme Court Justice Ruth Bader Ginsburg was beyond bright, fiercely determined and a tireless champion in the battle for women’s rights. She also was a recipient of the ATHENA Leadership Award, which honors exceptional individuals who have achieved professional excellence, contributed time and energy to improve the quality of life for others and helped individuals – particularly women – realize their full leadership potential.

Bringing the spirit of the ATHENA program here, Quad Cities Business News and Prescott Woman Magazine will be shining the spotlight on exceptional women who work, serve and inspire others during the 2nd Annual Prescott Area ATHENA Award celebration, 4-6 p.m., Sunday, Sept. 19, at Goods from the Garden.

“The Prescott Area ATHENA High Tea will be an afternoon of camaraderie, inspiration and networking,” said Prescott Woman owner/publisher Breeanya Hinkel. “The response from the community has truly been an outpouring of excitement and support.”

Last September, in a small outdoor event, QCBN and Prescott Woman announced Diane DeLong as the first Prescott ATHENA.

“Since receiving the ATHENA award, I have learned even more about the connection it provides to women throughout the world through their achievements in business, community service and the professional advancement of women,” said DeLong, the senior program manager for North Star Youth Partnership. “It is proof that we can, and must, all do something to inspire other women to reach their full potential.”

“Business leadership is about hard work, perseverance and dedication, but it is also about celebrating important moments and acknowledging extraordinary efforts,” said QCBN owner/publisher Troy Bix. “All of us owe a great deal of gratitude to women who have pushed through barriers with strength and grace, assisted and encouraged others along the way and demonstrated what it means to be a leader. We are thrilled to have this opportunity to honor and highlight these amazing women and their great accomplishments in our community.”

Early sponsors of the Prescott Area ATHENA Award include Dignity Health,Yavapai Regional Medical Center, Prescott Valley Chamber of Commerce and Northern AZsocial.

Nominations are being accepted now through Aug. 1. Tickets for the Prescott Area ATHENA High Tea are $60 per person and $400 for a table of eight. For more information, visit prescottathena.com. QCBN

By Bonnie Stevens, QCBN