Plano Chamber of Commerce Announces Dr. Theresa Williams as 2024 ATHENA Award Recipient
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
CONTACT: LaChaya Terry
Phone: 972-424-7547, ext. 224
Email: lachayat@planochamber.org
Plano Chamber of Commerce Announces Dr. Theresa Williams as 2024 ATHENA Award Recipient
Plano, TX – October 4, 2024 – The Plano Chamber of Commerce is proud to announce Dr. Theresa Williams, Superintendent of Plano ISD, as the recipient of the 2024 ATHENA Award. This prestigious honor is awarded to women who demonstrate outstanding service and dedication to the Plano community, with a mission to inspire others to achieve excellence in both their professional and personal lives.
Dr. Williams is a visionary leader whose career has been marked by a deep commitment to connecting students with their futures. As Superintendent of Plano ISD, she has introduced innovative programs and initiatives designed to prepare students for the challenges of the 21st century and beyond. Her leadership has strengthened the district’s focus on college and career readiness, ensuring students are equipped to succeed in an evolving global landscape.
Under Dr. Williams’ leadership, Plano ISD has maintained the highest credit ratings in Texas, secured crucial funding through bond elections and tax rate approvals, and established a Career and Technical Education Center that enriches students’ opportunities. Dr. Williams’ advocacy for public education at the legislative level has further secured essential resources for Plano ISD and North Texas schools.
Dr. Williams has also been a strong advocate for diversity, inclusion, and gender equity, mentoring teachers, educational leaders, and students throughout her career. Her collaborative approach has fostered relationships with business leaders, community organizations, and civic partners to enhance education and workforce development in North Texas.
A first-generation college graduate, Dr. Williams’ personal experience has fueled her passion for providing opportunities for all students. Her leadership and advocacy have had a significant impact on countless students and educators in the region, making her an exceptional choice for this year’s ATHENA Award.
The ATHENA Award will be presented to Dr. Williams at the Best of Plano Awards Dinner, proudly presented by Medical City Plano, on Friday, November 1st, at the Marriott at Legacy Town Center. This event recognizes outstanding leaders in the Plano community and celebrates excellence across various sectors.
For more information or to purchase tickets, please visit https://members.planochamber.org/events/details/best-of-plano-22813
Previous ATHENA Award recipients include:
- Cynthia Bauge – 1986
- Jean Godfrey Newman – 1987
- Samye Johnson – 1988
- Rhonda Rathje – 1989
- Florence Shapiro – 1990
- Mary Alice Garza – 1991
- Reva Bartlett – 1992
- June Rossetti – 1993
- Sue Whitehurst – 1994
- Ann Jones – 1995
- Lynn Dickerson – 1996
- Mazzie B. Moses – 1997
- Sandy Tysseland – 1998
- Betty Magee – 1999
- Maribelle Davis – 2000
- Marilyn Kasko – 2001
- Mary Jo Dean – 2002
- Carole Greisdorf – 2003
- Sharon Lewis – 2004
- Judy Jackson – 2005
- Marty McGee – 2006
- Jo Via – 2007
- Alice Hobbs – 2008
- Jenny McCall – 2009
- Rebecca Egelston Caso – 2010
- Kim Moore – 2011
- Camille Ussery – 2012
- Andre’ Davidson – 2013
- Shelley Strickland – 2014
- Tammy McSwain – 2015
- Sara Akers – 2016
- Pamela Zeigler-Petty – 2017
- Lynne McLean – 2018
- Mabrie Jackson – 2019
- Nancy Humphrey – 2020
- Jan Rugg – 2021
- Chris Krupa Downs – 2022
- Suzy Jones – 2023
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About the Plano Chamber of Commerce: Established in 1946, the Plano Chamber represents over 800 businesses and community organizations in Plano and the surrounding area. Accredited as a 5-Star Chamber by the U.S. Chamber of Commerce and awarded 2018 Chamber of the Year, the Plano Chamber of Commerce is committed to maximizing business development and economic growth of the community through advocacy, education, innovation, and collaboration.
