Women in Technology will present its first-ever Lifetime Achievement Award to SAIC CEO Toni Townes-Whitley on May 9, during the 25th Annual Leadership Awards Gala at the Hyatt Regency in Reston, Virginia. This award recognizes women who significantly impacted the technology industry and advanced women’s careers.
“I am deeply grateful to Women in Technology for acknowledging the impact and contributions of women in the technology industry,” Townes-Whitley said. “This award serves as a reminder that our achievements are not just individual milestones but also significant milestones for women in the field. Together, we have shattered glass ceilings, overcome barriers, and demonstrated that gender should never limit one’s potential.”
Townes-Whitley leads a company with annual revenues of $7.4 billion and roughly 24,000 employees. Before SAIC, she served as presidents of U.S. regulated industries at Microsoft and CGI Federal. She currently sits on the boards of the Nasdaq, Thurgood Marshall College Fund, Partnership for Public Service and the Princeton Faith & Work Initiative. She also was the WIT president in 2009-2010.
“Toni is the epitome of what our Lifetime Achievement Award represents. She’s not only a powerhouse in global business leadership, but a catalyst for inspiration through her philanthropy, mentorship, and servant leadership,” said Julie Murphy, current president of WIT. “Her dedication and passion to advancing women in the technology industry, as well her proven track record in cultivating diverse and inclusive teams, are unmatched.”
Townes-Whitley’s work has been widely recognized. She was named one of WashingtonExec’s Top Execs to Watch in 2024. She also served in leadership roles for charities, including the Women’s Center of Northern Virginia and U.S. Peace Corps.