Join the Women & Business Conference and ATHENA Awards Luncheon
Every professional needs a space where inspiration meets opportunity. For 50 years, the Women & Business Conference and ATHENA Awards Luncheon has created just that.
Hosted by the Salt Lake Chamber on Nov. 11 at the Grand America Hotel, this milestone event brings together women from across Utah to advance their careers, strengthen their networks, and celebrate the achievements of business and community leaders.
Whether you’re an established executive, a rising professional, or someone seeking motivation to move forward in your career, the conference offers opportunities to learn, connect, and grow. Through thought-provoking conversations, practical development, and recognition of outstanding leaders, attendees will leave with new ideas, renewed energy, meaningful connections, and a sense of belonging to something larger than themselves.
Photo: Salt Lake Chamber
Momentum
For half a century, the conference has united women leaders, professionals, entrepreneurs, and changemakers to learn, grow, and support one another. To mark its 50th year, the conference focuses on the theme “Momentum” — the energy that drives progress, creates opportunity, and carries impact forward.
Honoring Leadership: The ATHENA and Pathfinder Awards
A highlight of the event is the ATHENA Leadership Award, presented to an active Salt Lake Chamber member who demonstrates creativity and initiative in business, devotes time and energy to improve the quality of life for others, and helps women reach their full leadership potential.
This year’s honoree is Sandi Sumner Hendry, founder and CEO of Minky Couture. The Chamber will also recognize business and community leaders with the Pathfinder Award, honoring individuals who create new paths for women in business.
2026 Pathfinder Award Honorees:
- Jill Borst, Head of the Salt Lake City Office, Goldman Sachs
- Carin Crowe, CEO, Habitat for Humanity Greater Salt Lake Area
- Abby Osborne, Vice President of Impact, Engagement and Enterprise Operations, Utah 2034 Olympic and Paralympic Winter Games Organizing Committee
- Victoria Petro, Salt Lake City Council Member
- Sally Steed, Vice President of Sales, Deseret News
- Heidi Woodbury, Senior Vice President for University Advancement, University of Utah
Supporting Utah’s Women Entrepreneurs
The conference’s impact extends beyond the day itself. A portion of this year’s proceeds will benefit the Women’s Business Center of Utah, supporting its work to help entrepreneurs across the state start, grow, and lead successful businesses.
What You’ll Gain by Attending
The Women & Business Conference and ATHENA Awards Luncheon is an investment in yourself and your career. Here is what attendees can expect:
- A Chance to Grow: Explore how momentum is built through leadership and mentorship.
- Meaningful Connections: Engage with fellow business and community leaders.
- Fresh Motivation: Hear from inspiring speakers who remind us that progress happens when we uplift one another.
- Celebration of Achievements: Recognize the trailblazing women making a measurable difference in Utah’s business ecosystem.
Keynote Speakers Who Challenge, Inspire, and Elevate
This year’s keynote speakers will explore how to create and sustain momentum through leadership, resilience, and growth:
- Nicole Robison, founder of Swig, will discuss building a culture centered on “Day Making”—a people-first approach that enlarges customer loyalty and strengthens culture.
- Col. Lisa Jaster, one of the first women to graduate from the elite Army Ranger School, will share insights on maintaining momentum through adversity.
Together, their stories offer a powerful reminder that momentum begins with small choices, sustained by determination.
Photo: Salt Lake Chamber
Go Deeper with Breakout Sessions
Breakout sessions provide opportunities to explore specific subjects through interactive learning. Speakers include:
- Angela H. Brown, publisher and executive director, SLUG Magazine
- Catherine Chow, co-founder and COO, Raan
- Tonya Davis, director of external relations, Jon M. Huntsman School of Business
- Sheri Dew, executive vice president, Deseret Management Corp.
- Amanda Nell Edgar, founder, Page & Podium Press
Event Highlight
- Date: Nov. 11, 2026
- Time: 8:30 a.m. – 3:30 p.m.
- Location: Grand America Hotel, Salt Lake City, UT
- Registration: More details can be found on the Salt Lake Chamber’s website.
Join the Movement
For 50 years, the Women & Business Conference and ATHENA Awards Luncheon has created a space for Utah’s business community to connect, learn, and celebrate women leading the way. If you’re looking for personal inspiration combined with professional development, this milestone year is it. Spaces fill quickly—make sure to reserve your spot today.
