IAEE Cathy Breden Woman of Achievement Award

The IAEE Cathy Breden Woman of Achievement Award recognizes a woman who has led the way in the advancement of women in the exhibitions and events industry, exhibited outstanding leadership, and made significant contributions to the industry and her community.

The 2024 Call for Nominations is now open! Submit your nominations through the IAEE Member Dashboard.

SUBMISSIONS DEADLINE: 30 AUGUST 2024

Eligibility and Rules

  • The nominee must be currently employed or retired from an IAEE member company in good standing.
  • The nominee must have been employed with one or more IAEE member companies for a minimum of 8 years and have at least 10 years of exhibitions and events industry experience.
  • The nominee must have demonstrated exemplary leadership abilities through years in the exhibitions and trade show industry.
  • The nominee must have made significant and/or noteworthy achievements or contributions to the exhibitions and trade show industry resulting in a breakthrough, or milestone, made at any time within the nominee’s career.
  • The nominee must have contributed time and talents to IAEE.
  • Self-nomination is not permitted. Nominations submitted without supporting documentation will not be eligible for consideration.

Evaluation Criteria

  • Outstanding professional achievement/advancement of women in the industry.
  • Overall demonstration of leadership in the industry.
  • Nominee’s overall level of involvement in IAEE.

Past recipients of the IAEE Cathy Breden Woman of Achievement Award

2023
Kimberly Hardcastle-Geddes, CEM

2022
Lenay Gore

2021
Rachel Wimberly

2020
Nancy Walsh

2019
Julie Pazina, CEM-AP

2018
Jennifer Hoff, CEM

2017
Megan Tanel, CEM

2016
Jacqueline Russo

2015
Karen Chupka

2014
Julia Smith, CEM, CTA