Each year, the Greater Phoenix Chamber honors businesswomen who are at the top of their field at the ATHENA Awards. The ATHENA Young Professional Award recognizes women who demonstrate excellence in professional leadership, community service, and role modeling for other young professionals. Get to know the three finalists in the Young Professional category ahead of the 36th annual ATHENA Awards Wednesday, November 15th.
Ashlee Atkins, Diversity Manager, ASU Enterprise Partners
Ashlee Atkins is a dynamic professional making a significant impact in human resources, diversity, and community leadership. With over a decade of experience, she is an expert in training, recruitment, and project management, with a focus on fostering diversity and inclusion in the workforce.
Currently the Diversity Manager for ASU Enterprise Partners, Ashlee develops and implements initiatives for more inclusive workplaces. Beyond her professional role, she served as the immediate past President of Greater Phoenix Urban League Young Professionals, advancing community service, civic engagement, economic empowerment, and professional development. Ashlee’s commitment to service extends to various non-profit organizations, including board positions with NAAAHRAZ and the National Coalition of 100 Black Women Phoenix Metropolitan Chapter. She mentors, advocates for Black HR professionals and women, and passionately fosters inclusive work environments to empower individuals and contribute to the thriving Phoenix community. Her tireless efforts and expertise make her a respected voice in her field and a true asset to justice, equity, diversity, and inclusion initiatives.
Naquana Borrero, CFRE, Director of Development and Communications, Jazz in Arizona/The Nash & Owner, Bella Vita Consulting Group
Naquana Borrero is a seasoned nonprofit executive and fundraiser, currently contributing her expertise to Jazz in Arizona/The Nash. As a vital member of the organization’s executive team and chief fundraiser, Naquana leads all philanthropic fund development and communications efforts, both for the performance venue and the educational programs at the Southwest’s premier jazz venue. She also owns a consulting firm specializing in fund development and diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) in the nonprofit and political realms, with clients spanning various sectors, from local to national nonprofits and political entities.
A trained classical vocalist with a professional singing career, Naquana’s passion for music extends to Bella Voce Music Studio, nurturing young talent from Upstate New York to the Southwest. Her career includes roles at the state’s largest legal aid firm, overseeing funding and rebranding efforts, as well as leading initiatives for a local Title I charter school district, emphasizing family support for those experiencing homelessness. A Certified Fund-Raising Executive, Naquana is a sought-after speaker on nonprofit topics, including millennial giving, racial disparities, and diversity in philanthropy.
Heather Vana, Senior Director of External Communications, Avnet
Heather Vana, Avnet’s Senior Director of Communications, deftly manages global public relations for Phoenix’s largest publicly traded company. Her role expanded during the COVID-19 pandemic, leading crisis communications globally and steering Avnet through a CEO transition. Heather’s efforts have significantly raised Avnet’s visibility through PR initiatives, notably expanding Avnet Cares, the company’s community and philanthropic program. Beyond her professional journey, Heather’s personal story adds depth. During her career ascent, her spouse came out as transgender, a transformative and empowering journey that led Heather to embrace her own identity and share it openly at work, fostering an inclusive atmosphere. She co-founded Avnet’s first LGBTQ+ employee resource group and became PRSA Phoenix Board President. An active arts supporter, Heather reads her work at Ghost Poetry Show events, dances with Ballet Arizona, and plays bass in her punk band, often raising funds for local nonprofits. As a visible, multifaceted professional, artist, and advocate for LGBTQ+ rights, Heather leads by example, passionately championing the needs of others.
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