Congratulations to Media Relations Agency President Robin Kocina, who was just inducted into the Minnesota Women Business Owners Hall of Fame during a gala event held at the Golden Valley Country Club. Kocina was one of nine inspirational women honored. Previous inductees include Marilyn Carlson, Leeann Chin, Rhoda Olsen and Marilyn Dahlquist.
“This is the sixth year that we’ve honored women who deserve to be recognized for their significant roles in Minnesota history,” said Mary Quist-Newins, president of the Minnesota Chapter of the National Association of Women Business Owners (NAWBO-MN). “Collectively, the humbleness and courage of these women is so inspiring.”
Kocina’s passion for lifting women up is evident in the impact of her community involvement as well as how she supports her own staff’s personal and career development. She is known for committing tireless hours to local organizations.
“And as you intentionally build your life, keep in mind that it’s both a duty and a privilege to lift up those around you. Watch for them, find their passion, and lift them up,” she encouraged the gathering. “Help them to embrace whatever makes them unique. Help them to understand that it’s often our differences, not what we have in common, that give us something valuable to offer the world.”
Kocina received NAWBO’s prestigious Lifetime Achievement Award. She was also recognized as a Top Women in Finance Circle of Excellence as well as a Top Women in Finance by Finance & Commerce. Additional honors include the Dakota County Exceptional Businesswoman Award; Volunteer of the Year, Bloomington Chamber of Commerce; 25 Women to Watch, Minneapolis/St. Paul Business Journal; Upside Lifeline Award, Upsize Magazine; Standing Ovation Award, Minneapolis/St. Paul Magazine; and NAWBO’s Luminary Award.
More about the Minnesota Business Owners Hall of Fame
The Minnesota Business Owners Hall of Fame was established in 2013 to honor women who made substantial and lasting contributions to Minnesota’s entrepreneurial community, and specifically a major impact on women’s entrepreneurial development in Minnesota. Additionally, they must have:
- A meaningful connection to Minnesota (such as place of birth, education, and/or business location)
- Demonstrated leadership qualities or a spirit of entrepreneurial innovation that can serve as an inspiration to future generations of Minnesota entrepreneurs,
- Been publicly acknowledged for their accomplishments by winning a major business award and/or receiving similar recognition from their industry
