The Forum Foundation Catalyst Award seeks to elevate 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 are now open and will close on April 17, 2026.



Apply Here

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.

Who Should Apply?

If your work is essential and significant but you have been overlooked for traditional awards due to your role, identity, sector, or a non-traditional career path—this award is for you! 


Catalyst Award winners commit to attending: The Forum’s Annual Meeting on June 11, 2026, a two-day in person workshop at Villanova University from September 24 - September 25, 2026, and six monthly follow-up meetings with a Villanova faculty-facilitated peer coaching group.


Please read through the Catalyst Award Overview tabs for more information before applying.

Catalyst Award Overview (Review before Applying!)

  • 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.