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.
Stay tuned for details about the 2025 Call for Nominations
SUBMISSIONS DEADLINE: 29 AUGUST 2025
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
2024
Gwen Venable, CEM
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
