August 5, 2009

The Grand Rapids Area Chamber of Commerce

Grand Rapids - Nancy Skinner, Executive Coach, Consultant and Founder of Nancy Skinner & Associates (part of Varnum Consulting, LLC, a subsidiary of Varnum), has been named the Grand Rapids Area Chamber of Commerce’s 2009 ATHENA® Award recipient. The prestigious ATHENA Award honors an individual who has demonstrated leadership in her/his field, mentored and opened doors of opportunities for women,and contributed time and talent to the community. Eighteen women were nominated for the award, the twentieth year it has been presented to a member of the greater Grand Rapids community.

Nancy Skinner

Skinner will be honored at a luncheon on Thursday, September 24, at the JW Marriott Grand Rapids. The Chamber’s ATHENA Award Celebration begins at 11:30 a.m., and will also feature the presentation of the ATHENA Young Professional Award, which recognizes an emerging leader for their contributions to community, professional excellence and commitment to serve as a personal and professional role model to young women.

“Nancy epitomizes what the ATHENA Award is about,” says Jeanne Englehart, President & CEO of the Grand Rapids Area Chamber of Commerce. “She has been a mentor to many women in addition to being a business leader and giving back to our community. Learning about Nancy’s impact on our community will be inspiring for all who attend the ATHENA Award celebration, especially the women nominated for the Young Professional Award.”

The thirteen women nominated for the ATHENA Young Professional Award will be on the edge of their seats at the luncheon, as the recipient will not be announced until the event. Nominees for both awards will be honored at a private reception prior to the Celebration event, as well as recognized at the luncheon.

Registration for the annual ATHENA Award luncheon is available at www.grandrapids.org/events or by calling 616.771.0303. Cost to attend is $50 for Chamber members, $75 for future members.

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With more than 120 years of experience creating opportunities for business success, the Grand Rapids Area Chamber of Commerce is the premier business membership organization in West Michigan. Though the area’s largest employers are among its 2,800 member businesses, more than 80% of members ae small companies with 50 or fewer employees. By helping members connect, grow and succeed, the Grand Rapids Area Chamber of Commerce is a community partner that provides value for members, enhances the business climate in the area, and advocates for public policy that supports economic growth and vitality.