2023 AWTC Awards Honor Outstanding Women in Technology Leadership and Innovation

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

WASHINGTON, D.C.—The Association for Women Technology Champions (AWTC) announces the recipients of its third annual AWTC Technology Awards. These awards recognize exceptional women who have made (and continue to make) significant contributions to the advancement of technology in associations.

“The AWTC Awards celebrate the remarkable achievements of women who have not only broken through barriers in technology but have also shaped the landscape of their respective associations,” said AWTC Chair Moira Edwards, expressing her excitement about this year’s recipients. “Their leadership, innovation, and dedication are an inspiration to us all.”

The AWTC Technology Leadership Award recipient is Tracy Petrillo, EdD, CAE, Chief Learning Officer at the California Association of School Business Officials. Over her career, Petrillo has improved the access and experience for tens of thousands of association learners by advocating for new tools and approaches, as well as being an early adopter of technologies to facilitate their education and professional development. She has also mentored extensively in her associations and community, advancing others and making a positive impact on their careers.

The AWTC Technology Innovation Award recipient is Megan Cottrell, Director of Digital Strategy at CREW Network. Cottrell drove the transformation at CREW Network from a traditional all in one AMS to a hub and spoke model digital ecosystem. This approach allows for real-time data sharing and communication across all systems, ensuring that information is consistent and up to date. 

AWTC Technology Champion Awards

The AWTC Technology Champion Awards celebrate the remarkable contributions of women who, in various roles, advance technology within their organizations. These individuals use their creativity and expertise to make a difference to the associations that they serve. The 2023 awardees are:

  • Rebecca Breeden, CEO, Brightfind
  • Simone Bielsker, CAE, Program Director, Information Systems, American Staffing Association
  • Karine Blaufuss, CAE, Director, Business Data and Intelligence, American Geophysical Union
  • Molly Burns, Branded Program Manager, Food Export-Midwest
  • Megan Cantwell, Program Manager, Association of Organ Procurement Organizations
  • Taj Carson, CEO, Inciter
  • Teri Carden, Creator, Non Dues-a-Palooza
  • Emily Fekete, Community Manager, American Association of Geographers
  • Donna Gandt, Chief Revenue Officer (CRO), Impexium / Billhighway
  • Tip Tucker Kendall, CAE, Executive Director, National Grants Management Association
  • Kiki L’Italien, CEO, Association Chat
  • Megan McKelvy, COO, Altai Systems
  • Elizabeth Moris, Director of Brand Engagement, Council on Undergraduate Research
  • Meg Palumbo, CAE, Director of Customer Strategy, Novi AMS
  • Sharon Paré, Senior Partnership Program Manager, HighRoad Solutions
  • Arianna Rehak, CEO, Matchbox Virtual Media
  • Christine Rogers, Senior Marketing Manager, Association of Corporate Counsel
  • Damita Snow, CAE, ENV SP, Director, Accessibility & Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion Strategy, Publications and Standards, American Society of Civil Engineers
  • Lynn Spence, Director, IT & Web Services, Tax Executives Institute
  • Cate Sauer, Customer Success Manager, Higher Logic

The AWTC Awards highlight the crucial role that women play in shaping the future of technology within associations. AWTC is proud to recognize these outstanding individuals for their contributions to advancing technology and driving innovation in their respective fields. 

The ceremony celebrating the 2023 Award winners will take place on Tuesday, March 19.

For media inquiries, please contact:

Jill Treby

AWTC Secretary and Vice Chair

Email: jill.treby@gmail.com

Phone: 202-270-5569

About Association Women Technology Champions (AWTC)

Association Women Technology Champions is a dynamic organization dedicated to advancing women in technology within the association sector. Through mentorship, advocacy, and networking initiatives, AWTC strives to create an inclusive and supportive community that empowers women to excel in technology leadership roles within associations. For more information, visit awtc.tech.