ATHENA PowerLink® Recipients
Honoring the Visionaries Who Lead, Innovate, and Inspire
Since its inception, the ATHENA PowerLink® program has empowered women-owned businesses with expert mentorship and strategic guidance, fueling their growth and success. ATHENA Erie selects businesses that exemplify resilience, innovation, and leadership, shaping industries and uplifting future women leaders.
This page celebrates their achievements and showcases the impact of ATHENA PowerLink®. Explore the businesses that have thrived through this transformational program.
2025's Athena PowerLink® Recipients
Penny Bowers-Schebal
Formality Bridal
Penny Bowers-Schebal launched Formality Bridal, bringing her passion for affordable luxury and years of leadership experience to the bridal industry.
With locations in Erie, PA, and Geneva, OH, her vision has created a welcoming space where every bride can find the dress of her dreams for $999 or less.
Penny’s bold approach and commitment to excellence continue to elevate the bridal experience and inspire others in business. standards in the bridal industry.
Kayla Noonan & Dianna Noe
Noe’ Noonan School of Cosmetology
Kayla Noonan and Dianna Noe founded the Noe’ Noonan School of Cosmetology with a shared vision to empower aspiring beauty professionals through a dynamic, hands-on curriculum.
Their innovative approach to cosmetology education has not only equipped students with industry-leading skills but has also helped nurture a vibrant community throughout Erie County, PA.
With a passion for fostering creativity and excellence, they continue to inspire the next generation of beauty experts and drive positive change in the local cosmetology landscape.
Past Athena PowerLink® Recipients
2024
Emily Ernes, Glass Growers Gallery
Christina Vogel, Donatos Pizza, Erie
Dena Rupp, Purrista Cat Café
2023
Heather Hart , A Compassionate Hart Massage Therapy
Selina Uglow, The Way to Healthy Living
2022
Allison Price, Nutrition and Healing Center
Victoria Marz, Victoria Inn Bed and Breakfast
Holly McMastere, The Juice Jar
2021
Nadia Carlin, Amanda Speros, Nadia Shabanza-Pero, Blue Lily Home Staging & Design
Cynthia Hultberg, Jennifer Twohig-Williams, ZEF Color Society
2020
Alice DeGeorge, Presque Isle Printing Services
Jennifer Minski, PopLuck
Sarah Purvis, Erie Dance Conservatory
2019
Jessica Yochim Taylor, MenajErie Studio
Christina Vogel, Donatos Pizza
2018
Margaret Hauser, Grape Arbor Bed & Breakfast
Christine Henderson, Mathematical Expressions
2017
Rachel Artise, The UPS Store Yorktown Center
Dr. Tammy Kay Cassa, Cassa Family Chiropractic
Dr. Allison Keenan, Au.D., Erie Audiology, Inc.
2016
Claudine Thiem, Claudine’s Consignment, LLC
Genevieve DeRose, Inner Balance Pilates
Elizabeth Freitag, Peninsula Pups Doggie Daycare, Inc.
Pamela Bane Turner, Shear Delight Salon and Day Spa
2015
Rae Jean Catrabone, SandCille Spa & Treatment Studio
Joellen Nelson, Edward Jones
Karen Rzepecki, Mason Jars Company
2014
Melissa Sulkowski, Nurturinse
Lea O’Connell, Ye Ole Sweet Shoppe
Erin Green, Verify Services, LLC
2013
Adria Johnson, Headcases Salon
Lauren Mozdy, M.D, Integrative Med-Spa
Mary Beth Graml, Grapevine Laundry, Inc.
2012
Brenda Bennett, Transportation Solutions, Inc
Mary Campbell, CAMSCO Services, Inc
Susan Hawley, Signs Now
Barbara Welton, Welton Law
2011
Beth Burnside, CMIT Solutions of Erie
Sabrina Fischer, The Sassy Peacock, LLC
Sherry Morian, Quality Engineering Solutions, Inc
Michele Quadri, Al’s Awning Shop, Inc
Anita Rose-Marcoline, McCormick Coffee Co.
2010
Naomi Stutzman, FASTSIGNS Erie
Claudine Thiem, Milestones Children’s Consignment
Deborah Vahanian, Glass Growers Gallery
2009
Colleen Moore Mezler, Moore Research Services, Inc
Joyce Ann Miller, KeyStone Research Corporation
2008
Kathy Ames & Mary Birdsong, Naturally Yours
Donna Reese, General Exterminating
2007
Linda K Breakiron-Lombardo, W.C. Breakiron Jewlers, Inc.
Darlene Youngs & Cheryl Phillips, Bella Salon and Day Spa
2006
Jennifer Reed & Terri Reed-Boyer, Relish, Inc.
Lucille Savelli, Sandcille Demi Spa and Treatment Studio
2005
Elizabeth Brown, Millcreek Mall Subway
Shawn Keough-Hartz, Provider Resources
2004
Beverly Fetzner, Comfort Care & Resources, Inc.
2003
Sue Busse, Signature Mortgage Company
2002
Denise Christianson, Advanced Placement Services, Inc.
2001
Debrah Trocki, Signs Now
2000
Susan Wendel, Interiors of Erie, Inc.