FLAGSTAFF — The City of Flagstaff is excited to congratulate City Manager Joanne Keene on receiving the 2026 ATHENA Award. The ATHENA® International Leadership Awards program is a prestigious initiative that recognizes and honors individual women for their outstanding achievements and contributions in leadership, mentorship, and community service.
City Manager Keene has more than 25 years of leadership experience spanning federal, state, and local government. Throughout her career, Keene has championed advancing affordability, environmental stewardship, and infrastructure. She has successfully facilitated public private partnerships, advanced code reform, and guided community planning efforts that have delivered hundreds of new housing units and established sustainable frameworks for regional affordability. Her commitment to environmental stewardship is evident through her leadership in sustainability initiatives, participation on regional water councils, and contributions to legislative measures designed to protect natural resources.
Keene has also led major infrastructure and economic development projects, securing more than $24 million in transportation and infrastructure funding in the past year. These investments have enhanced accessibility, improved safety, mitigated flood risks, and expanded digital connectivity across Flagstaff. Her approach integrates long-term planning with community engagement, ensuring that projects meet both current and future needs.
Beyond her professional responsibilities, Keene has served on numerous boards and committees, contributing to fund raising and volunteer initiatives such as raising over $21,000 for United Way. She has developed programs for internships and hands-on mentorship opportunities, supporting emerging leaders in public service and providing guidance to women pursuing careers in government and civic leadership.
Keene’s career reflects extensive experience in municipal leadership, community development and policy implementation, with a sustained focus on creating programs and systems that serve both the city and its residents. Congratulations to City Manager Keene on this well-deserved milestone!