Volunteers for Youth Justice proudly celebrates Alex Person, our Community Engagement Director, for being recognized by the Greater Shreveport Chamber of Commerce as a 2024 Athena Leadership Award Nominee.
The Athena Leadership Award honors individuals who demonstrate professional excellence, community service, and a commitment to empowering others—particularly women—to achieve their full leadership potential. Inspired by Athena, the Greek goddess of strength, courage, wisdom, and enlightenment, the award celebrates leaders who personify these qualities in their work and community involvement.
Alex Person’s tireless dedication to volunteerism and her commitment to the Shreveport-Bossier community have set her apart as a true leader. As Community Engagement Director, Alex has elevated VYJ’s visibility and engagement within the community, ensuring that more families in crisis are aware of the vital resources and programs VYJ provides.
“Alex’s passion for serving others and her dedication to fostering meaningful connections within the community embody the very spirit of the Athena Award,” said Kelli Todd, Executive Director of Volunteers for Youth Justice. “This recognition is a testament to the transformative work Alex does daily.”
The Athena Leadership Award, established in 1982, is presented annually in over 500 communities across the globe, including the United States, Canada, India, and the United Kingdom. Since its inception, more than 7,000 exceptional leaders have been honored. This prestigious program aims to inspire others to achieve excellence in their professional and personal lives.
Notably, Kelli Todd, VYJ’s Executive Director, was an Athena Award honoree in 2023, continuing a tradition of impactful leadership within the organization.
The 2024 Athena Leadership Award winner was announced during the Athena Leadership Awards Luncheon hosted by the Greater Shreveport Chamber of Commerce on Thursday, November 14, 2024, and we’d like to congratulate all of the nominees and the winner, Dr. Wanda Thomas.