Howell, MI -The Howell Area Chamber of Commerce Foundation, in proud partnership with Lake Trust Credit Union, is thrilled to announce Kelly Genei, Dean of Undergraduate Studies at Cleary University, as the first-ever recipient of the Livingston ATHENA Leadership Award. Genei will be celebrated at the inaugural Livingston ATHENA Awards event on October 20, 2025, from 9 a.m. to 12 p.m. at the Lake Trust Headquarters.
The event will bring together leaders from across Livingston County representing business, education, nonprofit, and civic life-who share a commitment to advancing and strengthening community. This year’s recognition is especially meaningful, as 13 nominations from across the county underscoring the depth and diversity of leadership and talent in our region. Kelly was nominated by Cindy Ficorelli of Cleary University, who described her as a mentor, innovator, and advocate for inclusive leadership-someone whose impact reflects the very essence of the ATHENA Leadership Award: professional excellence, community service, and a dedication to lifting others.
Attendees will also hear from keynote speaker Topsy Vandenbosch, who will share how to dispel the “Comparison Trap” to redefine success, embrace your unique path, and lead with confidence.Advancing Women’s Leadership in Livingston CountyThe Livingston ATHENA Chapter, launched earlier this year by the Howell Area Chamber of Commerce Foundation, is part of the broader work of ATHENA International, a global organization dedicated to supporting, developing, and honoring women leaders. The ATHENA Leadership Award was founded in 1982 by Martha Mertz and has since grown into a worldwide movement, with thousands of leaders honored across hundreds of communities in eight countries. Rooted in ATHENA’s Eight Principles of Enlightened Leadership-including authenticity, courage, and community impact-the program is dedicated to advancing women in leadership and empowering individuals at every stage of their journey to lead with strength and purpose.
“ATHENA is about more than honoring one person—it’s about cultivating a culture of leadership and mentorship that empowers women at every stage of their journey,” said Janelle Smith, President of the Howell Area Chamber of Commerce. “We’re honored to celebrate our first recipient, Kelly Genei, and to welcome keynote speaker Topsy Vandenbosch, whose message on moving beyond the ‘Comparison Trap’ calls each of us to define success on our own terms and lead with clarity and courage.”
Event Details📍
Lake Trust Headquarters
📅 October 20, 2025🕘 9:00 a.m. – 12:00 p.m.
Attendees will experience a morning of meaningful connections, thought-provoking insights, and the celebration of leaders whose impact is felt across our communities.For additional details, please contact Dianne Samples at dsamples@howell.org. or contact the Howell Area Chamber of Commerce (517) 5465-3920. You can also register at howell.org or by clicking the link below.
https://chamber.howell.org/events/details/athena-leadership-award-event-22846