ATHENS, Ohio – It’s time to submit nominations for the 2026 Athena Award! This award recognizes outstanding contributions and service toward people with disabilities in the greater Athens community.
Nominations for the 12th annual Athena Award will be accepted through Tuesday, Sept. 1. The City of Athens is seeking names of community members who have worked tirelessly to improve the quality of life of people with disabilities.
Athena Award nominees should meet any or all the following criteria for assisting individuals with disabilities: Improves the quality of life; advocates for issues; volunteers to have a positive impact; develops new programs and services; offers exceptional customer service; and demonstrates innovation or entrepreneurship that has a positive impact.
Past recipients of the Athena Award include Dr. Larry Jageman, Michael Pletcher, Dr. Noriko Kantake, Elise Sanford, Dr. J.W. Smith, Patty Mitchell, Barbara Conover, Berry Dilley, William “Billy” Peacock, Lisa Wigal and Adrienne Nagy.
The 2026 Athena Awards will be held on Wednesday, Nov. 4 at the Athens Community Center and will be hosted by Mayor Steve Patterson and the Athens City Commission on Disabilities. A reception will be held at 5 p.m., followed by an award ceremony at 5:30 p.m. This free event is open to the public and refreshments will be available. To assist with planning, RSVP at disabilitiescommission@ci.athens.oh.us.
If you know someone who deserves this honor, please submit a nomination for the annual award by using this link: https://bit.ly/AthenaAwardNomination2026. A nomination form may also be requested from the Athens City Commission on Disabilities via email.
