Title
To Recognize Heather Whaling for receiving the NAWBO Visionary Award
Body
WHEREAS, Heather Whaling earned a Bachelor of Arts degree in communications from The University of Toledo before beginning an extensive career in public relations and launching her own company, Geben Communication, in 2009, which has evolved into an esteemed, in-demand, award-winning PR firm with offices in Columbus and Chicago; and
WHEREAS, Heather Whaling was named a 2016 Ernst & Young Entrepreneur of the Year in the Ohio Valley Region and won the 2017 National Association of Women Business Owners (NAWBO) Columbus Visionary Award for her success with Geben Communication and for her contributions to the Public Relations industry and to her community; and
WHEREAS, Heather Whaling sits on the board of The Women’s Fund of Central Ohio and is a vocal advocate for issues impacting women and girls, including championing unique and individualized paid family leave policies that work for businesses of all sizes; and
WHEREAS, Heather Whaling rolled out a 10-week leave policy for new parents at Geben Communication, an issue for which her perspective has been featured in Forbes, Entrepreneur.com, and a variety of local and national media outlets; and
WHEREAS, the example set by Heather Whaling highlights the importance and impact of excellent entrepreneurs in our community and helps to inspire other businesses to be inclusive of women and professionals with families; now, therefore
BE IT RESOLVED BY THE COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF COLUMBUS: That this Council does hereby recognize Heather Whaling for receiving the 2017 NAWBO Visionary Award and expresses its gratitude for her ongoing exceptional work empowering women and families in business and for her positive impact in the community.