Bay Bluffs Administrator Lisa Ashley named 2025 ATHENA Award recipient by Petoskey Regional Chamber
The Petoskey Regional Chamber of Commerce announced Lisa Ashley, Administrator of Bay Bluffs — Emmet County Medical Care Facility, as the 2025 ATHENA Award recipient during tonight’s Celebration of Champions at the Great Lakes Center for the Arts. The prestigious recognition came as a complete surprise to Ashley in keeping with ATHENA tradition.
Sponsored locally by Dave Kring Chevrolet since 1992, the international ATHENA Award honors individuals who demonstrate professional excellence, provide impactful community service and actively support women in developing their leadership potential.
Ashley was nominated by the Friends of Hospice of Little Traverse Bay, whose leadership credited her with transformative impact across healthcare and the broader community.
“Lisa is a rare leader whose vision, compassion and determination have shaped organizations and empowered countless women in our region,” said David McBride, Friends of Hospice of Little Traverse Bay champion and long-time advocate for end-of-life care. “Her steady hand at Bay Bluffs, her commitment to end-of-life care services and her belief in the potential of her staff — most of whom are women — have elevated care for our entire community.”
A licensed nursing home administrator with more than 30 years of experience in nonprofit and healthcare leadership, Ashley has guided Bay Bluffs through a decade of growth and national recognition. Under her stewardship, Bay Bluffs was recently named among the nation’s Best Nursing Homes by U.S. News & World Report and earned top statewide rankings from Newsweek.
Reflecting on the recognition: “I’m still just shocked,” Ashley expresses. “I have had some incredible mentors who have guided me, encouraged me, reminded me that following your passion is so important. I’m passionate about my community, my team, and all those who I am fortunate to serve.”
Her career also includes significant contributions to regional philanthropy including fundraising leadership for Friends of Hospice of Little Traverse Bay and helping bring the original Hiland Cottage end-of-life care residence to reality. Most recently, Ashley partnered with Friends of Hospice to open Hiland Suites at Bay Bluffs, ensuring local inpatient end-of-life care continues for Emmet County residents.
Beyond her professional achievements, Ashley has mentored women through Leadership Little Traverse, championed emerging female leaders within her organization and served in key community roles including past President of the Petoskey Regional Chamber of Commerce Board and one of the first female officers of the Petoskey Noon Rotary Club.
Ashley was nominated by the Friends of Hospice of Little Traverse Bay, whose leadership credited her with transformative impact across healthcare and the broader community.
“Lisa embodies the very spirit of the ATHENA Award,” shares Nikki Devitt, president & CEO of Petoskey Regional Chamber of Commerce. “Her leadership has strengthened our community, uplifted women and set a standard of excellence that inspires us all.”