The Forum Foundation Catalyst Award elevates four women leaders poised for greater positive impact. One winner will be selected from each of the following sectors: Private, Public, Nonprofit, Entrepreneurship.


Catalyst Award winners will accelerate their leadership skills by participating as a cohort in a year of professional development opportunities. Winners will be awarded Spark Membership with The Forum, access to The Forum’s network of 650+ leaders, and participation in a leadership advancement program through Villanova University focused on honing skills to ignite change.


The Catalyst Award is unique in two ways. It recognizes women who have not yet reached the pinnacle of their careers. It also facilitates the cross-sector collaboration needed to drive transformational change.


Applications for 2027-2028 to open in January, 2027.


The 2026 Forum Foundation Catalyst Award is made possible by the support of Forum founder Judith M. von Seldeneck, a lifetime champion of women leaders.


Learn more about Judith M. von Seldeneck's career & legacy in Philadelphia.

THE FORUM FOUNDATION

Catalyst Award Winner (2026-2027)

The Forum Foundation was proud to announce the recipients of the 2026 Catalyst Awards, recognizing four exceptional women leaders whose work is creating meaningful change across the Philadelphia region from the public, private, nonprofit, and entrepreneurial sectors:


Public Sector: Tracie Johnson


As Philadelphia's first-ever Youth Ombudsperson, Tracie Johnson made history by building a brand-new office dedicated to oversight, accountability, and advocacy for the city's young people. A tireless champion at the intersection of government and community, she is recognized for her extraordinary commitment to the next generation.


Private Sector: Taina Estremera


As Founder and CEO of Serene Consulting, Taina Estremera is on a mission to transform hustle culture into wellness culture across the Philadelphia region. With more than 18 years of experience in behavioral health and crisis services, she is recognized for her unwavering commitment to building healthier, more sustainable ways of working and living.


Entrepreneurial Sector: Khaliah Moody


As Founder and CEO of Steady Strides Behavior Solutions, Khaliah Moody has dedicated her career to supporting children and families impacted by developmental disabilities. She is recognized for her steadfast commitment to expanding access to quality care and advancing inclusion and equity in her community.


Nonprofit Sector: Kamesha Callands


As Manager of External Affairs at Community College of Philadelphia, Kamesha Callands has built her career around expanding educational opportunities and deepening community engagement across the Philadelphia region. She is recognized for her tireless commitment to advocacy, mentorship, and leading with purpose at every level.


Catalyst Award (Review before Applying in 2027!)

  • Criteria

    Catalyst Award nominees are women who demonstrate:


    1. Meaningful Impact - A clear record of contributing to positive change in their organization, sector, or community. Impact may be operational, strategic, cultural, relational, or systems-level.


    2. Leadership in Action - Evidence of leading with purpose, creativity, or courage. Nominees may hold formal leadership roles or lead through influence and initiative.


    3. Commitment to Development - Interest in personal growth, leadership learning, and participating in development experience during the award year.


    4. Alignment With Forum Foundation Values - A commitment to integrity, collaboration, equity, and strengthening the communities they serve.


  • Eligibility

    • The award is not open to current Forum members, Spark Members, or current participants in the Forum's 2026 Mentoring Program.
    • There is no age, title, or education requirement; early-career to senior leaders will be considered.
    • Applicants may work in one of the following sectors: private, public, nonprofit, or entrepreneurship.
    • A letter of recommendation is required.

  • What Catalyst Award Winners Receive

    • One year of Forum Spark Membership.  
    • Free admission to all four Forum Signature Events.
    • Participation in a leadership development program at Villanova University (September 24 & 25, 2026) and six monthly follow-up meetings with a faculty-facilitated peer coaching group.
    • Access to additional peer community and relationship-building opportunities.
    • Visibility through the Forum Foundation network and communications.
    • Recognition as a Forum Foundation Catalyst Award recipient.

Questions? Email info@foew.com.