August 11, 2025

Finalists Announced for 34th Annual ATHENA Leadership Awards Luncheon

WEST PALM BEACH, FL — August 11, 2025 – The Chamber of Commerce of the Palm Beaches is proud to announce the finalists for the highly anticipated 34th Annual ATHENA Leadership Awards Luncheon, taking place on Friday, September 19, 2025, from 11:00 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. at the Kravis Center for the Performing Arts, Cohen Pavilion.

One of The Chamber’s most inspiring and celebrated signature events, the ATHENA Leadership Awards honor exceptional leaders—and the organizations that support them—who exemplify excellence in their field, community impact, and a commitment to lifting others. Finalists represent a powerful cross-section of Palm Beach County’s business, nonprofit, and civic leadership.

ATHENA Leadership Award Finalists

Danielle Shull, Risk Strategies

As a proud first-generation college graduate and an alumna of the University of Florida, Warrington College of Business, Danielle Shull currently serves as the National Director of Client Experience for a leading national insurance broker, based in their South Florida regional office in Palm Beach Gardens.

With over two decades of dedicated experience, Danielle has served the public sector as a committed community partner and client advocate, ensuring exceptional current and future experiences. She is an active Lifetime Member and graduate of Leadership Florida’s Connect Class 9. A 30-year Florida resident, she resides in Palm Beach County and possess a deep passion for our state, its diverse communities, and vibrant cultures. She is committed to giving back, empowering young girls and women, and making a tangible difference in the lives of others.

Michelle Gonzalez, Healthy Mothers, Healthy Babies Coalition of Palm Beach County, Inc.

Michelle Gonzalez is the CEO of Healthy Mothers, Healthy Babies Coalition of Palm Beach County, Inc., a nonprofit organization focused on nurturing healthy births and families by meeting the physical, emotional, economic, and social challenges of pregnancy and infant wellness. With more than 25 years of experience in the nonprofit sector, Michelle has led impactful fundraising and development efforts, advancing maternal and infant health across her community. She holds a Bachelor’s Degree in Fine Arts from Florida Atlantic University and a Master’s in Nonprofit Management from the University of Central Florida. In addition to her nonprofit leadership, she spent a decade as a freelance graphic designer, helping organizations enhance their brand visibility. A passionate advocate, committed professional, and proud mother of three, Michelle finds joy in cheering from the sidelines at her children’s basketball, soccer and football games.

Nicole Cummings, Aerojet Rocketdyne

Nicole Cummings is the Engineering Program Manager at Aerojet Rocketdyne for the Exploration Upper Stage RL10 Engine on the Artemis rocket, which will take the first woman and person of color to the moon. She holds a Bachelor of Science in Mechanical Engineering from Florida Atlantic University and a Master of Science in Quality Management. Nicole began her career as an intern and advanced through roles at Pratt & Whitney and Aerojet Rocketdyne. Her diverse experience led her to her current role as Engineering Program Manager for the RL10 Exploration Upper Stage NASA program. Nicole actively promotes STEM education by volunteering with several organizations throughout the community. She has received numerous awards, including the WPB Women’s Chamber of Commerce Giraffe Award and the Florida Atlantic University Hall of Fame Alumni for 2023. Nicole is a recognized leader in both her professional and community endeavors.

Stephanie Prince-Springmyer, ESPN West Palm / Good Karma Brands

Stephanie Prince-Springmyer has been paving the way for females in a male dominated industry for 20+ years. Stephanie leads content, marketing, and sales for ESPN 106.3 FM, Deportes Radio 760, ESPN West Palm Play, the Boca Raton Bowl, and ESPN digital. Stephanie is on the board for PBC Sports Commission and the Executive Committee for the Boca Raton Bowl. She’s a recipient of SFBJ’s Forty Under 40, SFBW’s Apogee Award, SFBW’s Up and Comer Award, SFBJ 2024 Influential Business Woman, and Radio Ink’s Best Managers in Radio.
Stephanie led the launch of ESPN 106.3 FM and ESPN digital, the execution of ESPN events partnership, the partnership with Inter Miami CF as the official English & Spanish-language audio partner, the launch of the ESPN WP Play YouTube channel, all while exceeding financial goals. Stephanie earned a bachelor’s & master’s from FSU and resides in WPB with husband Gordon and three kids.

Telsula Morgan, Lewis, Longman & Walker, P.A.

Telsula Morgan is an attorney at Lewis, Longman & Walker, P.A., where her practice focuses on environmental land use and tribal law. She earned a Bachelor of Arts in English from the University of Florida and her Juris Doctor, from Florida Agricultural & Mechanical University College of Law. Telsula also serves as General Counsel for Leadership Palm Beach County. She currently serves as Chair of the Diversity and Inclusion Committee for the Palm Beach County Bar Association, is an Executive Council member of the American Bar Association’s Section of Environment, Energy and Resources (SEER), serves on the Board of the Literacy Coalition of Palm Beach County, and also currently serves as the Scholarship Chair for the West Palm Beach Alumnae Chapter of Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Inc.

 

ATHENA Young Professional Leadership Award Finalists

Jasmine Govan, Florida Power & Light Company

Jasmine Govan is a passionate change agent in Palm Beach County, driven by her commitment to community service, economic development, and STEM advocacy. At Florida Power & Light Company, she manages programs spanning K-12 STEM education, higher education, workforce development, and economic initiatives that cultivate a robust talent pipeline for the energy sector and adjacent industries. Her efforts have successfully connected FPL initiatives with schools/universities, organizations, and community stakeholders locally and nationwide, expanding student knowledge and career exposure. Beyond her profession, Jasmine volunteers with various organizations. Serving as President of the Young Professionals of the PBC Black Chamber of Commerce, SFL Regional Coordinator for the Florida Chapter of AABE, and board member of the Women’s Chamber of Commerce of PBC. Her community impact extends through innovative programs developed through partnership and stewardship. Jasmine’s unwavering commitment to civic engagement and workforce development makes her a respected catalyst for positive change.


Jennifer Ferriol, City of West Palm Beach

Jennifer Ferriol serves as the Director of Housing and Community Development for the City of West Palm Beach, where she oversees a broad portfolio that includes affordable and workforce housing development and compliance, real estate and lease management, homeless and social services, state and federal entitlement programs, citywide community engagement, and a partnership with Florida A&M University supporting community gardens across the city. In 2024, her role expanded to include leadership of the City’s Code Enforcement Division, extending the department’s mission to include neighborhood standards and quality-of-life initiatives. A graduate of Barry University with a degree in Public Administration, Jennifer has built her career in public service, with a focus on equitable access to housing, neighborhood revitalization, and community wellbeing. She remains actively engaged in civic and nonprofit work throughout Palm Beach County and was recognized as the 2020 Young Professional of the Year by the Chamber of Commerce of the Palm Beaches.

Kristen Bardin, Business Development Board of Palm Beach County

Kristen Bardin is the Vice President of Private Investment at the Business Development Board of Palm Beach County. She is a Jupiter native and now resides in West Palm Beach, where she acts as her Neighborhood Association President. Kristen recently received the Giraffe Award from the Women’s Chamber in the Rising Star category. She is a Leadership Palm Beach County Alumni, Class of 2025, and Leadership West Palm Beach Alumni, Class of 2023. She is an active member of her community and in 2023 Chaired the Palm Beach North Chamber of Commerce’s Young Professionals Council. Kristen graduated with a Bachelors Degree in Hospitality Management from the University of Central Florida and enjoys relaxing at the beach with her husband, Matt, and two beautiful young children, Harley and James.


Maghan Barber, Grant and Funding Solutions Company

Maghan Barber is the founder and president of GAFS Co., a woman-owned grant consulting firm dedicated to helping communities, nonprofits, and innovative startups access transformative funding. A first-generation college graduate, Maghan has secured millions in federal, state, and foundation grants for projects that address climate resilience, public infrastructure, and economic equity. She is passionate about empowering women, mentoring young professionals in the field, and using her work to drive systemic change. Based in South Florida, she serves clients nationwide and is known for her integrity, strategic mindset, and deep commitment to impact.

 

ATHENA Organizational Leadership Award Finalists

Guardians of the Glades

The Guardians of the Glades is a volunteer-driven organization whose mission is to give a voice to the communities of the Glades. Their employees work in the community every day so that they can hear the concerns of those in the community, and work with elected representatives to provide answers to those concerns.

Habitat for Humanity of Greater Palm Beach County

Habitat for Humanity of Greater Palm Beach County brings people together to build homes, hope, and a stronger community. The organization serve families and individuals through affordable, new home construction. Partner families help build their home and the homes of their neighbors, attend homeownership courses and financial literacy classes, and purchase their homes with an interest-free, 30-year mortgage. They also offer low or no cost home improvements and repairs to homeowners across Palm Beach County. They work to expand access to affordable housing and build a world where everyone has a safe place to call home. The organization was founded in 1986 and in 2023, Habitat Palm Beach County and Habitat South Palm Beach County merged to form today’s affiliate. They have 69 full-time staff members and 9 part-time employees. Their team is led by President and CEO, Jennifer Thomason and Board Chair, Charlotte Leonard.

Integrated Document Technologies, Inc

Integrated Document Technologies (IDT) is committed to delivering exceptional customer service through the sale, service, and support of office technology that enhances productivity and improves document workflow. The company specializes in providing cost-effective solutions tailored to each client’s operational needs. IDT sells, services, consults, and maintains a wide range of office equipment and software solutions. Their comprehensive portfolio includes managed print services, IT and network support, security systems, AI and document management systems – all designed to streamline processes, reduce expenses, and increase efficiency. With decades of industry experience, the IDT team takes a consultative approach to help clients make informed decisions about their technology investments. They stay current on the latest advancements in the marketplace to ensure our clients always have access to the most effective tools and services. Whether supporting small businesses or large enterprises, IDT is a trusted partner dedicated to driving results through smart solutions and outstanding service.

  South Florida Business Journal

South Florida Business Journal (SFBJ) is a multiplatform media company providing in-depth coverage of local business communities and breaking news in Miami-Dade, Broward and Palm Beach counties. Through print, digital products and face-to-face events, SFBJ offers business leaders many avenues for making connections and gives them a competitive edge locally, regionally and nationally through our parent company, American City Business Journals (ACBJ). SFBJ is the premier media solutions platform for companies that target business decision-makers. The company’s mission is to help customers grow their business, advance their career, and simplify their professional life. Their foremost objective is to give their readers and advertisers a quality print and online publication, as well as other services that are specifically tailored to their interests and needs. In this pursuit, their efforts focus upon quality journalism, innovative marketing, exemplary customer service and an unquestioned commitment to the highest standards of professional and corporate ethics.

ATHENA Leadership Awards Ceremony

The luncheon will feature keynote remarks by Traci Costa, President and CEO of ATHENA International, and a vibrant celebration of women who embody the ATHENA Leadership Model: live authentically, learn constantly, build relationships, foster collaboration, act courageously, advocate fiercely, give back, and celebrate.

“ATHENA Leadership Awards shine a spotlight on the remarkable women and organizations driving progress and shaping the future of the Palm Beaches” said Michael Zeff, President & CEO of the Chamber of Commerce of the Palm Beaches. “It’s an opportunity to come together as a community to honor achievements and be inspired by leadership.”

Reserve Your Seat

Reserve your seat today and be part of one of the most anticipated events of the year. Sponsorships, individual tickets, table packages, and program advertising opportunities are available.

Friday, September 19, 2025
11:00 a.m. – 1:30 p.m.
Kravis Center for the Performing Arts, Cohen Pavilion

For tickets and sponsorship information, email Belinda Ocasio at bocasio@palmbeaches.org or call 561-833-3711.

Categories: Events, Advocacy, Business
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Ribbon Cuttings

Preparation

Ribbon Cutting time availabilities Monday- Thursday 9:00a.m, 12:00a.m. or 5:30p.m. at host location or area location. (Palm Beach County, FL) 1st Friday of the month 1:00p.m. after the Ambassador meeting.

Pictures are always better with a banner, or sign and designated area to set up for photography. Identify the best place for the picture in advance to ensure a smooth event.

The Chamber of Commerce Membership Services Associate will arrive 20 minutes before the start of the event with a camera, ribbon, and scissors. They will assist in choosing the best position for the photo, if necessary. The person selected to cut the ribbon will be directed and assisted as to where to stand during the picture and how to handle the scissors.

Ambassadors of the Chamber of Commerce will hold the ribbon as the ribbon is cut. Ambassadors meet and greet your guests. Photographer will prompt you when to cut the ribbon, after several photos taken of the group are posed and ready.

We look forward to a great event!

Possible Participants:

  • The Chamber Ambassadors can be invited to participate. Additional committees can be included as appropriate.
  • Company staff including owner, CEO, CFO, COO, management, staff and invited guests.

Food/Refreshments- Optional. Your event will be better attended with refreshment provided. The food preference and the theme for your Ribbon Cutting Ceremony is entirely up to you.

Photos will be placed on the Chamber website, launched on the Chamber’s social media platforms and forwarded to the Ribbon Cutting host.

For the Membership Services Associate:

  • Please state if there are any special driving instructions, parking instructions, and if there are any special requests.
  • Please submit the Ribbon Cutting Request Form one month in advance.