Each year, the Greater Phoenix Chamber honors businesswomen who are at the top of their field at the ATHENA Awards. These women demonstrate inspiring leadership within their industry, mentor women throughout their career, and dedicate themselves to their community. Get to know the incredible finalists in the Public and Private categories ahead of the 36th annual ATHENA Awards on Wednesday, November 15th!
Public Sector finalists:
Tara Jackson, President, Arizona Town Hall
Tara Jackson’s journey from a challenging upbringing in Indiana at the age of 15 to her current position is a testament to her resilience and commitment to service. Faced with a tumultuous family life and a neighborhood marked by violence, her future seemed bleak until the intervention of her high school’s Dean set her on a path of leadership and service, igniting a passion that would shape her life.
Tara spent 16 years as an attorney, serving as lead counsel for commercial and employment litigation, chairing the Employment Law section at her firm, and holding the position of Hiring and Managing Partner.
In addition to her legal career, Tara discovered the transformative power of yoga and mindfulness, using them to promote personal well-being. She now shares these practices in diverse settings and for various populations. Throughout her journey, Tara has been a dedicated mentor, particularly to women, making a positive impact on students, interns, and aspiring leaders alike.
Jeri Royce, President & CEO, Advance Community
Jeri Royce boasts an impressive career spanning over three decades, during which she has made significant contributions to both profit and nonprofit organizations, locally, nationally, and internationally. Currently, she holds the esteemed position of President & CEO at Advance Community, making history as the first female to assume this role in the organization’s half-century history. Prior to this role, Royce’s tenure as Vice President & Deputy Director at the Points of Light Foundation in Washington, D.C., stands out among her professional achievements. There, she spearheaded the Knowledge Leadership and Model Programs Department while overseeing revenue-generating programs crucial to the organization’s overall operating budget.
Throughout her career, she successfully led diverse teams, including member leadership boards, staff, and volunteers, leaving an indelible mark on the organization. Her extensive experience and track record of building strong partnerships and successful teams continue to shape her illustrious career.
Lorraine Tallman, Founder & CEO, Amanda Hope Rainbow Angels
March 30, 2012, is etched forever in Lorraine Tallman’s heart, marking the devastating day she lost her beloved daughter Amanda Hope, a 12-year-old who courageously battled not one, but two forms of cancer. Amanda’s three-year fight was a profound struggle, and her passing was a “Perfect Storm” for the Tallman family. Lorraine had to relinquish her 20+ year career as CEO of a distribution company to care for Amanda. The family endured a seismic shift in their way of life.
In the face of this immense grief and upheaval, Lorraine found solace in preserving Amanda’s legacy. She channeled her determination into honoring Amanda’s wish for a chemotherapy clothing line and establishing support resources for families affected by pediatric cancer. She founded the Amanda Hope Rainbow Angels (AHRA) nonprofit foundation in 2012, leveraging her extensive management and sales experience to provide essential support and resources to families navigating the challenges of pediatric cancer.
Dawn Trapp, Chief Executive Officer, Civitan Foundation, Inc.
Dawn Trapp stands as a stalwart leader in Arizona’s nonprofit sector, serving as the CEO of Civitan Foundation Inc. For 22 years, Dawn has passionately led the growth and impact of Civitan Foundation, a nonprofit dedicated to enhancing the lives of countless individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities (IDDs) across Arizona.
Under Dawn’s visionary leadership, Civitan Foundation has achieved remarkable milestones, including the continued success of Camp Civitan, the expansion of Civitan Foundation Adult Learning (DTA) programs to four Valley locations, and the establishment of eight nonprofit businesses providing valuable job opportunities for members. With over 750 members, 300 staff, and a dedicated army of volunteers, Civitan Foundation’s revenue has surged from under $300,000 to an impressive $7 million under Dawn’s guidance. Dawn’s excellence in the IDD nonprofit sector extends beyond her professional leadership; she actively mentors young talents and cultivates robust community relationships.
Private Sector finalists:
Ginger Clayton, CEO, Elontec
Ginger Clayton views owning Elontec as a privilege, one that grants her the opportunity to be a catalyst for positive change in her community and the business world. Her sense of responsibility is deeply rooted in her commitment to service. She actively participates in multiple non-profit boards and committees, driven by a genuine desire to make a meaningful impact.
In 2013, she took a bold step by founding the Diaper Bank of Central AZ, a visionary project aimed at aiding approximately 30 non-profit organizations annually. Her personal mission revolves around instilling a “fever to serve” in others, motivating them to embrace the joy of giving back. Ginger attributes much of her success with Elontec to the invaluable mentorship she has received in the workplace and from her community. Her involvement in various boards and committees is a testament to her commitment to “pay it forward” and pave the way for others to thrive.
Melody Lewis, Owner & Founder, Indigenous Community Collaborative
Melody Lewis stands as a passionate community advocate and a trailblazing Indigenous entrepreneur, wholly committed to the resurgence of Indigenous communities and the amplification of Indigenous voices. At the heart of her mission is the Indigenous Community Collaborative (ICC), an organization she spearheads. Through ICC, Melody engages in vital consultations with various entities, propelling initiatives centered around workforce development, economic growth, diversity, inclusion, and education, all while nurturing the unique cultural identity of Indigenous communities.
Guided by her steadfast leadership philosophy, “The Future is Indigenous,” Melody deftly navigates the complexities of westernized environments while unwaveringly upholding her profound cultural values. Beyond her entrepreneurial endeavors, she remains deeply committed to mentorship and leadership development. She selflessly serves on advisory boards and champions initiatives that advance racial equity and open doors for Indigenous students and aspiring women entrepreneurs.
Jen Scrivner, Chief Operating Officer, Goodmans
Jen Scrivner’s remarkable career trajectory reads like a script from a blockbuster movie, an inspiring tale of unwavering dedication and an environment that recognized her exceptional talents. Her 25-year odyssey within the corporate realm culminated in her ascent to the prestigious role of Chief Operating Officer at Goodmans, a journey that began humbly as a customer service representative. Today, she skillfully guides teams spanning two states and three locations, a testament to her unparalleled leadership.
Throughout her illustrious career and her deep-rooted commitment to community service, Jen remains resolute in upholding her core values of family, learning, and honesty. These values not only define her leadership style but also fuel her personal passion for supporting organizations dedicated to education, poverty alleviation, and families with children. As a lifelong learner, Jen not only enriches her own knowledge but generously imparts her wisdom to others, underscoring her enduring dedication to growth and the betterment of her community.
Kristen Shroyer, Co-Founder & Chief Impact Officer, ONEHOPE
Kristen Shroyer is a dynamic force in the wine industry, a social entrepreneur, and a disruptor with an impressive 16-year track record. Her journey began in 2007 when she co-founded ONEHOPE at the young age of 23, marking her as one of the nation’s youngest female wine company founders.
Beyond her professional accomplishments, Kristen’s dedication to service shines brightly. She has actively engaged in numerous volunteer roles, including serving as the Board Chair for the Scottsdale Unified School District Foundation and mentoring young women in the world of Victorium Youth Volleyball. Kristen has also lent her expertise as a Board Member for the Arizona Animal Welfare League and contributed to the Phoenix Children’s Hospital’s Beach Ball Committee. Kristen’s remarkable career and community contributions have garnered well-deserved recognition, including the inaugural “Girl on Fire Award” from the Trends Charitable Fund, among many other accolades. Her journey continues to inspire and empower others.
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