Kay Ruhstaller, CEO of the Family Resource Center, experienced an extraordinary day when she was surprised with the announcement that she is the 2025 ATHENA Leadership Award recipient. The surprise took place at the Family Resource Center in Stockton, with friends, family, colleagues, representatives from the Greater Stockton Chamber of Commerce, and past ATHENA Leadership Award recipients all present to celebrate.
Ruhstaller expressed her astonishment and gratitude, acknowledging the many deserving women, particularly nonprofit leaders, who she felt were equally deserving of the prestigious award. She emphasized the significance of the ATHENA Award, highlighting its focus on continuous improvement and striving for excellence, values that resonate deeply with the work done at the Family Resource Center.
The Family Resource Center: A Pillar of Support
The Family Resource Center, established in 1980, plays a vital role in serving San Joaquin County. Its core mission is to empower parents and childcare providers by providing resources that foster healthy development in children. Operating with a substantial annual budget, the organization touches the lives of over 8,000 children each year.
The ATHENA Leadership Award: Recognizing Excellence and Empowerment
The ATHENA Award, presented annually by the Stockton Chamber of Commerce, recognizes individuals who embody the highest standards of achievement, excel in their respective fields, actively support the advancement of women in business and professional settings, dedicate their time and energy to community service, and serve as mentors to others.
The Chamber of Commerce highlighted Ruhstaller’s unwavering dedication to uplifting others, particularly women, as a central aspect of her leadership. She is recognized for her humility, authenticity, and encouragement in mentoring emerging leaders. Many credit Ruhstaller with helping them find their voice, advance their careers, and assume leadership roles. She actively fosters diverse leadership and creates opportunities for women, especially women of color, to lead with confidence and purpose.
Criteria for the ATHENA Award
Recipients of the ATHENA Award are expected to meet specific criteria, including:
- Demonstrating the Eight Principles of Enlightened Leadership in all aspects of their life.
- Demonstrating excellence, creativity, and initiative in their business or profession.
- Providing valuable service to improve the quality of life for others in their community.
- Actively assisting women in achieving their full leadership potential.
A Legacy of Leadership: The ATHENA Award’s History
The Greater Stockton Chamber of Commerce presented its first ATHENA Leadership Award in 1986. Since then, the award has been bestowed upon 37 distinguished individuals. Linda Luna, CEO and president of the Stockton Chorale, received the 2024 ATHENA Leadership Award. Ruhstaller will be the 38th recipient of this honor. The ATHENA Leadership Award was not awarded in 2020.
The Chamber of Commerce described Ruhstaller as embodying the spirit and purpose of the ATHENA Award, highlighting her intelligence, humility, courage, and deep commitment to her community’s future. Her impact extends beyond the programs she has created and the policies she has influenced, encompassing the lives she has touched through mentorship, the systems she has improved, and the hope she has inspired. Her story exemplifies the transformative power of values-driven leadership and unwavering dedication, making her an inspiration to women and leaders across all sectors.
Testimonials of Ruhstaller’s Impact
Colleagues and mentees shared their sentiments regarding Ruhstaller’s well-deserved recognition. Christina Gilbert, a mentee and colleague, described her as the most influential mentor in her career, praising her strategic insight, compassion, and generosity. Gillian Murphy, President of the Family Resource Center Board of Directors, hailed Ruhstaller as a leader of leaders, noting that her strength, planning, and calm presence have guided the organization through challenging times and lasting transformations.
A Champion Beyond the Family Resource Center
Ruhstaller’s contributions extend far beyond her work at the Family Resource Center. She is actively involved in numerous community organizations, including co-founding the San Joaquin Children’s Alliance and serving on the First 5 San Joaquin Commission. She also served as a gubernatorial appointee to the California Early Childhood Policy Council, advising the Legislature and governor on issues affecting children and families. In 2023, she served as the 13th female President of the Greater Stockton Chamber of Commerce.
Ruhstaller has also been a vocal advocate against proposed cuts to vital programs like SNAP and Medicare. She has worked in partnership with the Teen IMPACT Center and played a crucial role in developing 211 San Joaquin, a vital resource for connecting people with essential services.
A Commitment to Equity and Justice
Ruhstaller’s commitment to social justice is evident in her actions. Following the murder of George Floyd, she authored a “Call to Action,” acknowledging her role as a white leader and urging collective efforts to dismantle systemic racism. She has organized voter registration drives and continues to champion civic engagement as a tool for equity and justice. Her community involvement includes organizations such as the League of Women Voters, Shriner’s Hospital, and the Children’s Museum of Stockton, as well as numerous collaborative initiatives. Her events, such as the “Because Kids Awards,” celebrate unsung heroes, and her participation in Children & Youth Day, including once dressing up as Princess Elsa, demonstrates that leadership is also about joy and connection.
Upcoming Awards Luncheon
Ruhstaller will be formally presented with the ATHENA Leadership Award at the 38th annual ATHENA Awards Luncheon.
ATHENA Young Professional Leadership Recipient
In addition to Ruhstaller’s recognition, Stephanie Braithwaite, founder and program manager of Lotus Rising Recovery Services, was named the ATHENA Young Professional Leadership recipient.
