2025 Indiana County Athena Awards
Renda Media has been a proud partner with the Colonial Motor Mart as the Co-Sponsors of the annual Indiana County Athena Award. The award recognizes individuals who demonstrate excellence in their professional field, provide valuable service to the greater Indiana County Community, and actively mentor and support women in leadership development.
JOYCE SHARMAN
Joyce Sharman has built a legacy of service and leadership through decades of community involvement. A dedicated board member and fundraiser, she has supported numerous causes including The Open Door, Welcome to Indiana, United Way of Indiana County, and IUP’s advisory boards. After returning to Indiana following her husband’s passing, she became deeply involved in initiatives to address local health and social needs.
Her philanthropic work includes raising over $100,000 through a memorial fundraiser, generating more than $750,000 for United Way, and contributing to campaigns like Kiwanis-A-Flip and the Evergreen After School Club. She has long championed vulnerable populations, organizing housing, food, and healthcare programs for those in need, including initiatives in Los Angeles such as Forum Community Services for Lakers’ families.
During the COVID-19 pandemic, Sharman played a critical role in sustaining local programs, mentoring boards, and guiding fundraising efforts. She has supported projects benefiting children, underserved communities, and individuals with disabilities, working with organizations like Special Olympics, Sharefest, and Shared Bread.
Her leadership and impact have been widely recognized with awards including the ATHENA Leadership Award, Humanitarian of the Year, and multiple civic honors. She has also been featured in Women of Steel, celebrating women who make a difference in their communities.
As she looks to the future, Sharman continues to support local causes and lead charitable efforts such as the Quota Fifth Annual Christmas Home Tour. Her work reflects a lifelong commitment to service, leadership, and creating meaningful change for those in need.
Thank you to our 2025 Indiana County Athena Award sponsors
We salute our 2025 Athena Finalists, including Jessica Cunningham (InFirst Bank), Felicia Daniel (S&T Bank), Barbara Hauge (UpStreet Architects), Laurie Kuzneski (Kuzneski Insurance Group), Meriann Lee (Purchase Line School District), Kathy Mihoerck (Grace Church), Amy Rebyanski (Indiana Area School District), Joyce Sharman (Fundraiser for multiple non-profits), and Nicole Wannett (Armstrong-Indiana-Clarion Drug & Alcohol Prevention Center).
Community celebration of leadership and service – the Emerging Women Leaders Luncheon will be October 15th, from 11 to 1 at the Indiana Country Club. The luncheon will include the presentation of the 2025 ATHENA Awards and the 3rd annual Spadafora Family $5,000 scholarship for a high school senior who is a member of ATHENA Club. Tickets are $50 per person with proceeds supporting the ATHENA program. Register at www.indianacountychamber.us by October 10th.
