Join NAWBO Columbus at the Columbus Museum of Art on Tuesday, May 12th, for an evening dedicated to excellence, impact, and inspiration as we shine a spotlight on the trailblazing women business owners of Central Ohio at the 2026 NAWBO Columbus Visionary Awards: Sparkles & Sneakers Gala.
These awards honor incredible leaders who aren't just excelling in their industries—they are driving change in their industries and making our community a stronger place for everyone.
It’s going to be a high-energy, meaningful night of celebration. In the spirit of moving forward and breaking barriers, we’re keeping it stylish and spirited—yes, we’re wearing sneakers with our sparkle!
Come for the inspiration, stay for the connection, and help us celebrate the women shaping the future of Columbus.
Join us to honor the 2026 Honoree and celebrate Advocates, Allies and Champions of Women Owned Businesses!
Meet our 2026 Visionary Honoree
Krista Guagenti is the Founder and Visionary behind Panacea Luxury Spa Boutique, a dream more than 30 years in the making and now a premier wellness destination redefining the spa experience in Central Ohio. Serving more than 20,000 clients annually with a team of more than 50 employees, Panacea is one of the nation's few luxury spas with a full staff certified in Oncology Therapeutics. Panacea's unique approach blends holistic modalities, traditional spa services, and resort-level luxury amenities in an environment designed to promote relaxation and healing.
Krista's background spans healthcare, business, and entrepreneurship. She holds a bachelor's degree in chemistry, a master's in business, and spent a decade in the healthcare industry before launching her first venture as a Budget Blinds franchise owner. Within just six months, she grew that business to debt-free profitability. Later, she expanded into the beauty industry by opening a Deka Lash franchise-a concept that aligned with her oncology mission by supporting those undergoing chemotherapy and radiation with lash extensions. These entrepreneurial experiences became stepping stones toward her ultimate vision, laying the groundwork for Panacea.
Krista's dedication extends beyond leadership. Before opening Panacea, she became a licensed massage therapist, licensed esthetician, and earned advanced Oncology Therapeutics certifications to fully master the services her spa offers. This hands-on commitment ensures the highest level of expertise and care for all clients, while modeling dedication and excellence to her staff.
In recognition of Krista’s innovations and excellence in leadership, she was named a Columbus Business First Women of Influence Entrepreneur Honoree Winner. With plans for expansion underway, including a second spa location in partnership with Cameron Mitchell Restaurants and Crawford Hoying, Krista continues to elevate wellness experiences and set new standards for luxury spas in Central Ohio and beyond.
Join us to celebrate champions and innovators!
We can't wait to recognize those who champion women business owners.
Awards Include:
- Member of the Year
- Business Champion of the Year
- NextGen Award
Join us to support women owned!
The 2026 Visionary Awards will feature services, food, photography and more by women owned businesses including:
Tickets include Cocktail Hour with drinks, heavy appetizers, admission to 10 galleries and the Awards ceremony.
The "Sparkle & Sneakers" dress code, the goal is to balance celebratory, high-shine cocktail/ formal wear with the comfort and personality of athletic footwear. Allowing for creative expression while maintaining the prestigious atmosphere of the NAWBO Columbus Visionary Awards.
The "Sparkle" represents your visionary brilliance, while the "Sneakers" represent the ground-level work of being a business owner!
Registration closes Tuesday, May 7th!
Event Agenda:
- 5:00-6:30pm- Cocktail Hour & Galleries
- 5:30pm- Welcome
- 6:30-7:30pm- Visionary Awards Ceremony
Click HERE for Sponsorship Packages
Thank You Sponsors!
Silver Sponsor
Red carpet experience Sponsored by:
Photo Release:
Registrants agree to the NAWBO Columbus photography release unless they have otherwise notified the communications committee via email to arien@nawbocolumbusohio.com.