Dr. Linda Salane received the Grand D.I.V.A award for outstanding community service impacting the lives of girls and women. The award was presented during the 8th Annual D.I.V.A. Awards Gala & Silent Auction on September 12, 2009. The criteria for the award specify that the nominee must have made significant and persistent contributions in the field of advocacy for girls and women, inspired others with their efforts in volunteer work, community service, professional leadership and direct involvement with organizations that advocate for girls and women, and their achievements have contributed uniquely to the improvement of the lives of girls and women affected by domestic violence, sexual assault, and/or child abuse. Dr. Salane is the executive director of The Leadership Institute at Columbia College.
 
Salane coordinates all community leadership programs for Columbia College including Leadership for the New South, a leadership certificate program for executive women, LEAD, a summer residential series for middle and high school girls, Girls Empowered, a year long leadership program for middle school girls in Richland School District 2 and Chapin Middle School, LEAD Eau Claire, a year long program in Eau Claire High School, Women’s Health Matters, a leadership and health series for uninsured and underinsured women and specifically designed programs to develop leadership strengths for corporate, government and non-profit leaders. She also provides leadership to the Alliance for Women at Columbia College, a public private partnership designed to improve the status of women in SC. She is active with Women in Philanthropy, chairs the board of the Cooperative Ministry and serves on the boards of the Palmetto Women’s Center and Junior Achievement.
 
DIVA International, Inc., (DEDICATED INDIVIDUALLY to VALIANTLY ASSIST) services are provided in local community centers, public and private schools, juvenile justice system facilities, churches and shelters. Partnerships and collaborations with organizations with like missions assist DIVA in nourishing and guiding girls and young women in making decisions and choices that will empower them with the tools and knowledge for successful futures and the ability to become positive citizens of our community.