President's Awards

Dr Ride is recognized for her many contributions and are as follows:

Dr. Sally Ride, a former NASA Astronaut and the first American woman in space, is the co-founder and CEO of Imaginary Lines, Inc., a company dedicated to encouraging more young girls of middle school age to pursue math and science through programs and products designed to meet their specific interests and needs. She is also the Ingrid and Joseph Hibben Professor of Space Science at UCSD.

The Sally Ride Academy is another one of her endeavors that provides the opportunity for teachers to continue their professional growth. Science, mathematics and technology are presented in the context of how they are used in the world of work. The Academy reflects the essence of her life and her commitment to science.

Dr. Ride has been inducted into the National Women's Hall of Fame, and has received numerous honors and awards, including the Jefferson Award for Public Service, the von Braun Award and the Lindberg Eagle. She has twice been awarded the National Spaceflight Award.

A founding board member of Athena, O’Donnell is recognized for her efforts to launch the Forum for Women Executives (FEW), a peer-support program, as well as her ongoing work to build the membership and programs of Athena.

For her visionary leadership in creating Athena, serving as its first executive director, and as a role model for the many San Diego companies and enterprises she’s founded and led.