Linda K. Waters has been named the 2009 ATHENA Award recipient through The United Regional Chamber of Commerce. The International ATHENA Award is presented annually to individuals who have achieved a high degree of professional excellence, have assisted women to develop their full potential by opening up leadership opportunities, and whose body of work has made a national or international impact.

After 20 years working in a corporate environment, Waters transformed her career and her life by creating Back to Business LLC, a Franklin, MA firm dedicated to helping moms return to the world of work. Her business has since grown to provide career direction and effective job search strategies to college-aged students as well. An accomplished business leader and presenter, she co-hosts a local TV show called "You're Hired," and speaks regularly to academic, professional and corporate audiences on career-related topics. Back to Business hosts many local events designed to help people build their confidence and further their careers.

In her nomination of Waters, her coworker Helen Kinney wrote that Waters provides complimentary consulting to non-profits on various business related topics to assist women in their career objectives; created the Phoenix Network which provides the opportunity for divorced women to seek support, advice and guidance; provides pro-bono services for women in financial need; and supports a variety of charitable organizations.

Waters will be honored at The United Regional Chamber of Commerce ATHENA Award Luncheon on Thursday, March 26 at Highland Country Club, 104 Mechanic St., Attleboro.

The cost of the luncheon is $30 per person. Contact The United Regional Chamber of Commerce at 508-222-0801, 508- 528-2800, 508-695-6011 to reserve a seat at the luncheon.