DeKalb Chamber of Commerce Announces New Rising Leader Award for 2026

The DeKalb Chamber of Commerce is proud to announce the launch of the Rising Leader Award, a new recognition program celebrating women who are making a meaningful impact early in their careers and demonstrating the potential to become influential leaders in their organizations and the DeKalb County community. The Rising Leader Award complements the DeKalb Chamber’s annual ATHENA Award, which celebrates established women leaders, mentors, and community volunteers.

New for 2026, the Rising Leader Award recognizes a woman who is excelling through professional achievement, creative leadership, and community engagement. The award is designed to shine a light on emerging leaders who are making a difference today while building a strong foundation for continued leadership in the future.

A maximum of two honorees will be selected for the inaugural Rising Leader Award.

Eligibility
• Is 35 years of age or younger.
• Has a minimum of three years of professional experience.
• Is employed by or actively volunteers for a DeKalb Chamber member in good standing. For the current list of members visit dekalb.org.
• Demonstrates leadership within her profession and/or the community.
• Nominees cannot be running for public office at the time of their nomination.
• Must be available to attend the ATHENA Award Reception on October 15, 2026.

Nomination Requirements Due Friday, September 11
• Online nomination form
• Resume
• Two references (250–500-word limit) preferably from different organizations or relationships to provide a well-rounded perspective on the nominee’s leadership. Reference topics should include the nominee’s professional accomplishments, leadership beyond their job responsibilities, positive influence in the workplace/community, and why you believe the individual represents a rising leader.
• Resume and references must be emailed to virginia.jimenez@dekalb.org.

For a nomination to be considered complete, the online nomination form, resume and two references must be submitted by the September 11 deadline. Resumes and references should be emailed to Virginia Jimenez at virginia.jimenez@dekalb.org.

For questions about the Rising Leader Award or the nomination process, contact Virginia Jimenez at 815-756-6306 or virginia.jimenez@dekalb.org.

To learn more about the Rising Leader Award and submit a nomination, visit dekalb.org/athena-award.