The Leadership and Empowerment Award honors a woman who has shown outstanding leadership and a commitment to empowering others, leading to a lasting impact that improves the well-being of people, places, opportunities, or conditions in the East Bay. She successfully collaborates with diverse groups of people, creates inclusive teams, and exhibits superior leadership qualities. 

Eligibility Criteria 

• Must be a woman in a leadership position in the East Bay 

• Minimum 10 years of professional experience 

• Must demonstrate a track record of team or organizational leadership 

Evaluation Criteria 

Leadership Impact  

• Demonstrated success in leading teams or organizations 

• Achievement of significant organizational goals 

• Development and execution of strategic initiatives 

• Evidence of effective change management 

• Engagement of multiple audiences (gender, race, income, culture) 

Team Development  

• Success in building and mentoring high-performing teams 

• Implementation of effective talent development programs 

• Creation of inclusive and collaborative work environments 

• Track record of promoting diversity and inclusion 

• Sustainability of efforts 

Community Influence  

• Involvement in industry or community leadership 

• Advocacy for women in leadership roles 

• Advocacy for multi-cultural, multi-ethnic leadership roles 

• External recognition and reputation 

• Contribution to professional networks and organizations 

• Efforts led to a significant and lasting impact on the community