Jeannette Winchester, chair of the TH Chamber of Commerce(l); Rachel Leslie, chief external relations officer at SMWC (m); David Haynes, president of the TH Chamber of Commerce(r)
Terre Haute Chamber of Commerce hosted its 101st Annual Meeting on August 27, 2014, featuring the presentation of four prestigious business awards – including the ATHENA Leadership award, which was presented to Rachel Leslie, chief external relations officer at Saint Mary-of-the-Woods College (SMWC).
The ATHENA Leadership Award, is presented to an individual who has demonstrated excellence, creativity and initiative in their business or profession, provided valuable services by contributing time and energy to improve the quality of life for others in the community and actively assisting women in realizing their full potential. ATHENA is an international program that has honored more than 6,700 individuals in hundreds of cities across the United States, as well as in Canada, China, Russia and the United Kingdom.
Leslie was specifically recognized for her “always present” mentality and willingness to jump in and lend a hand to make sure projects are completed. She is genuinely interested in helping others achieve their full potential. Her past and present community involvements have included the Terre Haute Chamber of Commerce, Terre Haute International Airport, United Way of the Wabash Valley, Vigo County Education Foundation and Wabash Valley Leadership Institute
Rachel with her husband Broc and their sons
Beau (l) and Luke (r)
In her role as chief external relations officer, Leslie serves on the president’s cabinet at SMWC. She promotes the public image of the College and advance its financial sustainability through building and maintaining of relationships with community leaders, corporations and governmental officials. She helps guide the College through the complexity of governmental compliance with federal and state regulations of higher education. In addition, she will help to oversee the implementation of the new Wabash Valley Leadership Institute, a new initiative between SMWC and the Terre Haute Chamber of Commerce.
Leslie earned her Master of Leadership Development degree from SMWC and her bachelor’s degree in speech communication, public relations and journalism from Indiana State University. Additionally, she has earned the Institute of Organization Management certification, from the professional development program of the U.S. Chamber of Commerce Madison, Wis. She and her husband Broc have two sons.