Eight Women. One Prestigious Honor. Triangle East Chamber Announces 2026 ATHENA Nominees
SMITHFIELD, N.C. — September 21, 2026 — The Triangle East Chamber of Commerce is pleased to announce the 2026 nominees for the prestigious ATHENA International Leadership Award, recognizing eight outstanding women whose leadership, professional accomplishments, community service, and commitment to developing others exemplify the spirit of the ATHENA Award.
The 2026 nominees are:
- Randa Gay — Isaiah 117 House
- Cindy Mason — Over the Moon Boutique
- Joelina Landa — United Community Bank
- April Stephens — The April Stephens Team and Johnston County Commissioner
- Kimberly Pickett — Town of Smithfield
- Martha Dockery — Superior Clinical Research
- Susan Watson — Parrish & Underwood Funeral Homes
- Natasia McLean — NDM Method and Say Y.E.S. Foundation
The ATHENA International Leadership Award is presented to an individual who demonstrates professional excellence, valuable service to the community, and a commitment to assisting women in achieving their full leadership potential. The program celebrates accomplished leaders while recognizing those who help create opportunities and pave the way for future generations of leaders.
“The Triangle East Chamber is honored to celebrate this remarkable group of women,” said Kelly Wallace, President & CEO of the Triangle East Chamber of Commerce. “Each nominee represents leadership in a unique way, and together they reflect the incredible talent, service and commitment found throughout our community. The ATHENA Award gives us an opportunity to recognize not only professional achievement, but also the impact these women are making on the people and communities around them.”
The 2026 ATHENA Leadership Award recipient will be announced during the 2026 Triangle East ATHENA Leadership Award Dinner on Tuesday, October 6, 2026, at The Birdie Ballroom at the Neuse Country Club, located at 921 Birkdale Drive in Clayton.
The evening will begin with a reception at 5:30 p.m., followed by dinner and the awards program at 6:30 p.m. The event is presented by Call Pernell Heating and Air and hosted by the Triangle East Chamber of Commerce. The event provides an opportunity for the community to gather and celebrate all eight nominees and recognize the 2026 ATHENA recipient.
The ATHENA Award has a long history in the Triangle East community, with local recipients dating back to 1988. The Triangle East Chamber's most recent recipient, Ruth Marler, was honored in 2025.
Registration & Sponsorship Opportunities
Community members, businesses and organizations are invited to attend this special evening celebrating leadership in the Triangle East region. Registration is currently open.
Sponsorship opportunities are also available for businesses interested in supporting the ATHENA Leadership Award and recognizing women leaders in the community.
2026 Triangle East ATHENA Leadership Award Dinner
Tuesday, October 6, 2026
5:30 p.m. — Reception
6:30 p.m. — Dinner & Program
The Birdie Ballroom at the Neuse Country Club
921 Birkdale Drive, Clayton, NC 27527
Registration:
2026 ATHENA Leadership Award Dinner Registration
Learn more about the ATHENA International Leadership Award:
Triangle East Chamber ATHENA Leadership Award
For registration or sponsorship information, contact the Triangle East Chamber of Commerce at 919-934-9166 or info@triangleeastchamber.com.
About the Triangle East Chamber of Commerce
The Triangle East Chamber of Commerce serves businesses and communities throughout the Triangle East region by providing opportunities to CONNECT • GROW • PROSPER through business advocacy, networking, professional development, community engagement and economic growth initiatives.
