Shreveport Shines a Spotlight on Outstanding Women Leaders
Shreveport, LA – It’s that wonderful time of year again when we come together to recognize and celebrate talented individuals who are making a real difference in our community. The Greater Shreveport Chamber’s Business Development Connection has rolled out the red carpet to announce the finalists for the highly esteemed 2024 ATHENA International Leadership Award. This exciting event is set to take place at the ATHENA Leadership Award Luncheon on November 14th, and it is sure to be a heartwarming occasion.
Celebrating Excellence
This year marks the 34th anniversary of this cherished event, which has consistently recognized and honored women who not only excel in their careers but also give back generously to their communities and support other women in their pursuit of leadership. The luncheon, hosted by *Ochsner LSU Health Shreveport*, will gather together sixteen remarkable honorees, all of whom have made significant contributions in their respective fields.
As we look forward to the awards ceremony, Verni Howard, the Chair of the 2024 ATHENA Committee, expressed her enthusiasm about this year’s group of finalists. “As a previous honoree, it is my distinct honor to chair this year’s celebration. Leaders never do the work to receive an award, but this nod affirms that the work makes a difference,” Howard shared. “We will all get to celebrate the amazing accomplishments of sixteen women who are breaking barriers and leading our community to a brighter future!”
The Honorees
The spotlight will shine on each of the ATHENA Honorees, who have demonstrated not just professional excellence but also a genuine commitment to civic engagement. While we can’t disclose their names here, it is undeniable that these women represent the best of Shreveport’s spirit and resilience. Each honoree showcases the very heart of leadership, proving that success is not just a personal achievement but a collective journey.
Join in the Celebration
This year’s ATHENA Leadership Award Luncheon will take place at *Sam’s Town Hotel & Casino*, with registration opening at 11:30 AM. The Greater Shreveport Chamber warmly invites everyone to attend and partake in this inspiring celebration of leadership and community impact. If you want to be part of this joyous occasion, be sure to mark the date on your calendars!
A Legacy of Recognition
Since its inception in 1982, the ATHENA International Leadership Award program has honored nearly 8,000 leaders in over 500 communities worldwide, including notable locations like the United States, Canada, China, and the United Kingdom. The program’s mission is to inspire others by recognizing those who achieve excellence not only in their professional lives but also in their personal endeavors.
Get Involved
For those interested in celebrating with us, please visit the Greater Shreveport Chamber’s official website for more details and registration options. Whether you’re looking to support the honorees, network with fellow community members, or simply enjoy an uplifting afternoon, this event is not to be missed! You can also reach out via phone at (318) 677-2500 for assistance.
As we gear up for an afternoon filled with inspiration, connection, and celebration, let’s take a moment to recognize and appreciate the incredible women paving the way for future generations in Shreveport and beyond. Each step they take not only uplifts their own paths but creates a ripple effect that benefits us all.

Author: STAFF HERE SHREVEPORT WRITER
The SHREVEPORT STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HEREShreveport.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Shreveport, Caddo Parish, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as Mudbug Madness Festival, Red River Revel Arts Festival, and Independence Bowl. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Shreveport-Bossier Chamber of Commerce and Shreveport Regional Arts Council, plus leading businesses in gaming, healthcare, and energy that power the local economy such as Horseshoe Casino, Ochsner LSU Health, and Atmos Energy. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREBatonRouge.com and HERENewOrleans.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Louisiana's dynamic landscape.

