YWCA Opens Nominations for 33rd Academy for Women of Achievement

NASHVILLE, Tenn. (May 21, 2025) – YWCA Nashville & Middle Tennessee is now accepting nominations for the 33rd Academy for Women of Achievement (AWA) presented by Amazon. This annual recognition program honors women in Middle Tennessee who have made extraordinary contributions through professional success, community service, and leadership. Honorees are passionate about empowering women and improving our community. The deadline for AWA nominations is Friday, May 30, at 5 p.m. CST.

Deborah Taylor Tate (AWA Class of 2006), Emily Reynolds (AWA Class of 2024) and YWCA Board Member Adrienne Johnson are serving as co-chairs of the 2025 event. The theme, developed by FINN Partners, will be revealed at the annual Honoree Party hosted at Amazon Headquarters in August. Beth Seigenthaler Courtney (AWA Class of 2010) will unveil the theme at the event.

“The Academy for Women of Achievement shines a spotlight on remarkable women who are transforming our communities and breaking down barriers,” said Reynolds. “We’re proud to honor their leadership and passion for building a stronger Nashville and Middle Tennessee.”

Each year, YWCA also presents a corporate award to a Middle Tennessee company or organization that has demonstrated an ongoing commitment to supporting the advancement of women in the workplace.

“This program is a powerful way to highlight trailblazers and changemakers who are aligned with YWCA’s values,” said Tate. “It also serves as a critical fundraiser for YWCA’s essential programs and services.”

Since the program’s inception in 1992, 198 women and 35 organizations have been inducted into the prestigious Academy.

The 2025 AWA celebration will take place on Tuesday, October 28 at the Renaissance Nashville Hotel. Proceeds from the event support YWCA programs, including the Weaver Domestic Violence Center, Girls Inc., AMEND Together, Family Learning Center, Dress for Success Nashville, and Career Services.

Nomination forms are available on www.ywcanashville.com/awa2025.  Honorees will be announced in August. Organizations interested in sponsoring the event should contact Michele Harrell.

Current sponsors include Amazon, the Mary Wester Foundation, Dollar General, and Jackson.

For more information, please contact:
Michelle Mowery Johnson
YWCA Nashville & Middle Tennessee
(615) 424-0544 | michelle.moweryjohnson@ywcanashville.com

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