Today’s Women’s Networking Luncheon, presented by Southside Bank, was a powerful reminder of what leadership looks like in action as the Lufkin/Angelina County Chamber of Commerce proudly presented the 2026 ATHENA Leadership Award.

The ATHENA Leadership Award® is one of the most meaningful recognitions presented each year, honoring a woman who not only excels in her profession but who lifts others, strengthens her community, and leads with both courage and heart.

Since its inception in 1982, the ATHENA Leadership Award® has recognized nearly 6,000 leaders across more than 500 communities worldwide. The program celebrates individuals who demonstrate excellence in their field, dedicate themselves to improving the quality of life for others, and actively support women in reaching their full leadership potential.

As part of today’s program, past ATHENA recipients in attendance were recognized, a moment that reflected the lasting impact of this award and the strong network of women leaders in our community.

This year, the Chamber had the privilege of honoring a woman who embodies the very spirit of ATHENA.

For more than 15 years, Katherina Crager has served Diboll ISD with integrity, consistency, and a deep sense of responsibility. As Assistant Superintendent for Finance, she oversees more than $25 million in annual operations and has led financial oversight for a $12 million bond project. While those numbers are impressive, they only begin to tell her story.

For Katherina, budgets are not just numbers, they are promises. Promises to students, teachers, and families. Every decision she makes reflects a commitment to doing what is right for her community.

Her leadership is defined not just by expertise, but by how she shows up for others.

Whether she is navigating complex financial decisions or selling tickets at a Friday night football game, she leads with humility and a willingness to serve. She has a unique ability to bring clarity to complexity, communicating in ways that build trust and confidence across boards, staff, and the community.

Beyond her professional role, Katherina is deeply invested in developing others, especially women. She mentors, encourages, and creates space for growth, helping those around her step into leadership with confidence.

Her impact extends far beyond the workplace. Through service on local boards, support of youth programs, and nearly a decade of leadership with the local library, she continues to strengthen the foundation of her community.

Katherina leads with steadiness in times of challenge, courage in moments that matter, and integrity in every decision she makes. As one nomination shared, she is “accomplished without seeking attention, confident without arrogance, and influential without self-promotion.”

Because of her leadership, teams are stronger, opportunities are greater, and others are rising.

The Lufkin/Angelina County Chamber of Commerce is honored to recognize Katherina Crager as the 2026 ATHENA Leadership Award recipient.

Her leadership reflects the very best of our community and serves as an inspiration for others to lead with purpose, invest in people, and create lasting impact.