The Greater Phoenix Chamber of Commerce announced 11 finalists for its prestigious ATHENA Awards, three of whom will be selected as recipients at the chamber’s 28th annual ceremony in October.

Continuing its tradition of recognizing outstanding Valley businesswomen, winners will be named at the 28th Annual ATHENA Awards luncheon Thursday, Oct. 29, at the Arizona Biltmore from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m.

The ATHENA Businesswoman of the Year Award recognizes women in the public and private sector, in addition to highlighting an upcoming leader in the Valley as an ATHENA Young Professional.

“All of today’s ATHENA finalists’ achievements serve as an inspiration for us all and embody the spirit of this prestigious award,” Todd Sanders, Greater Phoenix Chamber of Commerce president and CEO, said. “These exemplary women represent professional excellence and leadership of the highest honor and have a genuine desire to inspire, develop and support other women to achieve their full potential. They make our community a better place in which to live, work and play.”

ATHENA finalists are chosen for their excellence in business and leadership, dedication to the community and mentorship of other women. Private sector finalists are Judi Butterworth, Heidi Jannenga, Melissa Sanderson and Kay Wing. Public sector finalists include Cathy Brown, Lillian Garcia, Sunnee O'Rork and Leah Fregulia Roberts, and in the Young Professional category, Jessica Hipskind, Ashley Kasarjian and Lea Phillips.

An outgrowth of the international ATHENA organization founded by Martha Mertz in 1982, the program supports and honors women leaders and inspires them to reach their full potential by invoking the ideals of the Greek goddess of courage, wisdom, arts and science.