Showcasing the 2026 ATHENA Organizational Award finalists who are advancing leadership and opportunity across the region

Rochester, New York – Organizations do not create change on their own. People do. And when those people are given the space, trust, and support to lead, their impact can stretch far beyond office walls and balance sheets. That idea sits at the heart of the 2026 ATHENA Organizational Award, which is now shining a spotlight on a diverse group of finalists whose work is shaping workplaces, communities, and lives across the region.

Since 2015, the ATHENA Organizational Awards have recognized woman-owned or woman-led organizations that actively foster leadership opportunities for women employees. The goal is not only representation, but empowerment—building cultures where women are encouraged to grow, lead, and influence decisions at every level. This year’s finalists reflect that mission clearly, even though they come from very different industries.

What unites them is a shared belief that progress happens when people are supported to do their best work. Whether through business services, nonprofit programs, or creative strategy, each organization has found ways to lift others while moving the region forward.

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One of the finalists is Helen + Gertrude, a communications agency rooted in human-centered storytelling. Named after two pioneering women in advertising and data, the agency is led by Founder and CEO Becca Post. Under her leadership, Helen + Gertrude has built a reputation for helping organizations communicate with clarity and purpose. By focusing on people first—both clients and employees—the agency creates space for meaningful stories to be told and heard.

Another finalist making a national impact is Travel Alliance Partnership. Led by CEO Nicole Mahoney, the organization works with destinations across the country to build stronger, more connected communities through tourism. The team’s work goes beyond promotion, focusing instead on collaboration, long-term planning, and shared growth. Under Mahoney’s leadership, the organization emphasizes inclusive leadership and professional development, ensuring women have opportunities to step forward and shape the future of the industry.

Several of this year’s finalists come from the professional services sector, where leadership and culture often determine how far a company—and its people—can go. Info Advantage, led by President Linda Weller, supports small and mid-sized organizations with their information technology needs. At the same time, the company prioritizes community involvement and giving back, reinforcing the idea that business success and social responsibility can go hand in hand.

Nearpass & Koegel PLLC is another professional services firm among the finalists. Founders and Managing Partners Kate Nearpass and Rachel Koegel lead the organization with a focus on fairness, accountability, and trust. Their firm specializes in independent workplace and Title IX investigations, as well as other impartial services that require both expertise and integrity. By centering ethical leadership and transparency, they have built a workplace that supports both clients and employees.

The nonprofit sector is also strongly represented among the finalists, highlighting how leadership can change lives directly. Rochester Hope, Inc., led by Executive Director Dawn Burdick, works with individuals facing housing instability and other challenges. The organization focuses not just on providing resources, but on offering connection, resilience, and hope—meeting people where they are and walking alongside them as they move forward.

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The Arc of Monroe, under the leadership of President and CEO Tracy Petrichick, supports individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities and their families throughout Greater Rochester. The organization provides pathways to independence, personal growth, and community connection at every stage of life. With a strong emphasis on inclusion and advocacy, The Arc of Monroe continues to expand opportunities for those it serves.

Another nonprofit finalist, Everyday Hands, Inc., reflects the power of steady growth and vision. Founded by Lauren Goetz, the organization has grown from a one-person operation into a respected, multidisciplinary team. Today, Everyday Hands serves seniors, families, and community partners across Greater Rochester, providing practical support that allows people to live with dignity and independence.

Together, the 2026 ATHENA Organizational Award finalists tell a broader story about leadership in action. They show what happens when organizations invest in women leaders and build cultures that value collaboration, purpose, and growth.

Community members who want to be part of that celebration will have the chance to do so at the ATHENA Awards Celebration on Thursday, February 5. Tickets are available, and attendees will also be able to learn more about finalists in other categories, including the 2026 ATHENA Award finalists and the 2026 ATHENA Young Professional Award finalists. It is an opportunity not just to recognize achievement, but to support the future being built—together.