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Lori Thompson, Abby Hamilton, and Macy Ware honored for leadership, service, and
impact across Virginia’s Blue Ridge.

ROANOKE, Va. (November 13, 2026) – The Roanoke Regional Chamber proudly recognized
three exceptional women during its Third Annual ATHENA Awards, presented by LewisGale
Medical Center, celebrating women whose leadership, professional achievements, and
commitment to their communities are making a lasting impact throughout Virginia’s Blue Ridge.
The annual celebration brings together business and community leaders to recognize women
who demonstrate excellence in their professions, give back to their communities, and create
opportunities for others to succeed.

This year’s ATHENA Award recipients are:

ATHENA Leadership Award – Lori Thompson: Recognizing an established leader
who has demonstrated professional excellence, contributed meaningfully to her
community, and actively supported the advancement of women.

ATHENA Non-Profit Leadership Award – Abby Hamilton: Honoring an outstanding
leader in the nonprofit sector whose dedication to service, organizational leadership, and
community impact has made a meaningful difference in the region.

ATHENA Young Professional Leadership Award – Macy Ware: Celebrating an
emerging leader who has demonstrated exceptional potential, professional achievement,
and a commitment to empowering others early in her career.

“Each year, the ATHENA Awards remind us just how fortunate we are to have so many
incredible women leading, serving, and making a difference throughout our region,” said Kayla
Masters, Vice President of Marketing & Programs for the Roanoke Regional Chamber. “Lori,
Abby, and Macy represent three different stages of leadership, but they share a common
commitment to lifting others up and making our community stronger. We are proud to recognize
their accomplishments and celebrate the example they set for the next generation of women
leaders.”

The ATHENA Awards are part of an internationally recognized program dedicated to honoring
individuals who demonstrate excellence in leadership, contribute to their communities, and
actively assist women in reaching their full leadership potential.

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