Mantella to receive ATHENA Leadership Award

Grand Valley President Philomena V. Mantella will receive the 2026 ATHENA Leadership Award at the Grand Rapids Chamber's 37th Annual ATHENA Awards Celebration on Oct. 14.

The ATHENA Leadership Award is presented to an exceptional leader whose dedication to professional excellence, community service, and empowerment of women exemplifies the highest standards of leadership and mentorship.

"Dr. Mantella exemplifies the kind of leadership that strengthens not just an institution, but an entire community," said Rick Baker, President and CEO of the Grand Rapids Chamber. "Her work has expanded opportunity for countless students, and her commitment to mentorship reflects everything the ATHENA Leadership Award stands for. On behalf of the Grand Rapids Chamber, I congratulate her on this well-deserved recognition."

Mantella is GVSU's fifth president -- the first woman to lead the university. Since her appointment in 2019, Mantella has led a bold and inclusive agenda to expand the university's reach and relevance through its Reach Higher Together strategic plan.

"When women have access to opportunity, mentorship, and strong networks of support, the impact extends far beyond any one individual," Mantella said as part of her nomination for the award. "It strengthens families, organizations, and communities, creating a more vibrant and inclusive future for all, and I am proud to play a role in this crucial work."

Mantella is an active community leader, recently concluding a term as president of the Economic Club of Grand Rapids. She also serves on the Detroit Board of Directors for the Federal Reserve Bank of Chicago, and the boards of Corewell Health, Great Lakes Intercollegiate Athletic Conference, Grand Action 2.0, the American Council on Education, the Michigan Association of State Universities, The Right Place, Inc., and Talent First.

"Receiving the ATHENA Leadership Award is truly an honor in a region filled with exceptional leaders," Mantella said. "I am humbled and excited, especially when I look back at the inspiring list of past award recipients. I share this honor with the faculty, staff and students who strive each day to make GVSU a place where brighter futures are made and we truly turn 'What if?' into 'What is.'"

Others being honored at the celebration include Mya Stone, Founder & Managing Partner, Stone Capital Partners, who will receive the ATHENA Young Professional Leadership Award, and Girl Scouts of Michigan Shore to Shore, which will receive the ATHENA Organizational Leadership Award.

ATHENA honorees and recipients were chosen by the ATHENA Council following an open nomination process.

The ATHENA Awards program began in Grand Rapids in 1989 to honor individuals for their professional excellence, community service, and active assistance in women's attainment of professional excellence and leadership skills.