Suffolk News-Herald

The Hampton Roads Chamber of Commerce – Suffolk Division is accepting nominations for the 18th annual Athena Award.

The Athena Award, sponsored by Duke Automotive, is given to the outstanding business person in Suffolk each year at the Chamber’s Annual Awards and Recognition Dinner.

The dinner will be held at Nansemond-Suffolk Academy on Thursday, Feb. 24, 2005. A reception will begin at 6 p.m. with dinner to follow at 7. Call Summer Timberlake at 664-2562 for ticket information.

The Athena Award honors people who strive toward the highest levels of professional accomplishment – men and women who excel in their chosen field, have donated time and energy to their community in a meaningful way, and who also open paths so that others may follow.

Criteria include: Assist women in reaching their full leadership potential; demonstrate excellence, creativity and initiative in their business or profess; and provide valuable service by devoting time and energy to improve the quality of life for others in the community.

Nomination forms are available at the Chamber office. The deadline for turning them in is Jan. 14.

Past winners of the award include: Joyce Trump, Fan Panton, Lula Holland, Gail Pruden, Ruby Walden, Pat Williams, Dr. Margaret Reid, Peggy S. Wade, Fran Alwood, Sarah Walden, Sunny Dixon, Nancy F. Russell, Lorraine B. Skeeter, Virginia Babey, Betsy Brothers, Jerry P. Powell and Clarissa McAdoo.