Brookdale Leaders Named Finalists for Prestigious ATHENA Awards

Brookdale Community College is proud to announce that Tracey Abby-White, Trustee, and Dr. Jackeline Mejias-Fuertes, Director of the Small Business Development Center, have been named finalists for the Monmouth Regional Chamber of Commerce’s (MRCC) ATHENA Leadership Award®. They join Dr. Susan Pagano, Executive Director of Continuing & Professional Studies, who was recently announced as a finalist for the ATHENA Young Professional Leadership Award (for a leader aged 24-40). This recognition underscores the exceptional talent and dedication of Brookdale’s leaders and their significant contributions to the community.

The ATHENA Awards, an internationally renowned program, celebrate individuals who demonstrate excellence in their professions, provide valuable service to their communities, and actively assist women in achieving their full leadership potential. This prestigious award has a rich history of honoring leaders who make profound contributions to their communities and beyond.

“This is quite a testimony to the incredible people at Brookdale,” said Brookdale President Dr. David M. Stout. “Trustee Abby-White, Dr. Mejias-Fuertes, and Dr. Pagano’s dedication to service and leadership inspires us all. Their recognition as ATHENA finalists highlights the caliber of individuals who contribute every day to our college and community.”

This recognition continues Brookdale’s tradition of excellence. It follows last year’s honor bestowed upon Carol Stillwell, a longtime Brookdale Community College Foundation member and the President and CEO of Stillwell-Hansen, Inc., who was awarded the 2023 ATHENA Leadership Award. Additionally, one of last year’s finalists was Dr. Joan Ali Scocco, Chief Officer of Strategic Initiatives and Innovation at Brookdale.

The MRCC is the only organization in New Jersey licensed to present the ATHENA Leadership Award®, making this recognition even more prestigious for the finalists. The ATHENA Awards are part of a global program that has honored over 6,000 recipients since its inception in 1982. The award’s emphasis on mentorship and leadership makes it one of the most coveted recognitions worldwide.

The MRCC annually hosts a gala luncheon to present the ATHENA Leadership Award and the ATHENA Young Professional Leadership Award. This year’s event will occur on November 8 at the Jumping Brook Country Club in Neptune.

Super Early Bird tickets for the gala are available for $65 until August 31, 2024. Tickets can be purchased through the MRCC’s event registration page: MRCC Event Registration.

The community is invited to join in this outstanding celebration and support the remarkable leaders of the Garden State and the women they inspire. The ATHENA Leadership Award, with its international scope and focus on mentorship, continues to honor those who make our world a better place to live, work, and lead.