The Salt Lake Chamber, Utah’s largest statewide business association, has named Gail Miller as the 2012 ATHENA Award recipient.

The award was presented Thursday at the 36th annual Salt Lake Chamber Women’s Business Center American Express Women & Business Conference and Wells Fargo ATHENA Award luncheon.

“Gail Miller is simply the persona of elegance, dignity, dedication and perseverance. Her calming influence is an example to our entire state as she continues to devote herself to all that is good,” said Lane Beattie, president and CEO of the Salt Lake Chamber. “Her influence in the business community is only exceeded by her commitment to the entire community. Gail shows compassion and understanding with a willingness to help wherever needed to achieve excellence.”

Miller is the owner of the Larry H. Miller Group of Companies. She is actively engaged in the various operations of the company, including the administration of the Larry H. & Gail Miller Family Foundation.

The ATHENA International Award, sponsored by Wells Fargo, is presented annually to an active member of the Salt Lake Chamber who demonstrates excellence, creativity and initiative in business; provides valuable service by devoting time and energy to improve the quality of life for others in the community; and assists women in reaching their full leadership potential.

In addition to the ATHENA Award, five women on Thursday received the Pathfinder Award, presented annually to community leaders who create paths that promote the development and recognition of women in business.

This year’s recipients are:

• Sarah George, Natural History Museum of Utah

• Debra Hoyt, Questar Corp.

• Vivian Lee, University of Utah Health Science

• Susan Madsen, Utah Valley University

• Molly Mazzolini, Infinite Scale