About Commonwealth Heroines

The Commonwealth Heroine Celebration is an opportunity to recognize the women across the state who don’t always make the news but who are truly making a difference in their communities, businesses, or volunteer endeavors. Every day, thousands of women perform acts that make our homes, neighborhoods, cities, and towns better places to live. The Commonwealth Heroine award is given to women of the Commonwealth who use their time, talent, spirit, and enthusiasm to enrich the lives of others in their communities. They are mentors, volunteers, and innovators who strive to protect and represent the interests of seniors, victims of violence, children, immigrants, and other vulnerable populations. They are the glue that keeps a community together, and we’re proud to honor them.

Nomination Process

Each year the Commission partners with state legislators to identify women who make outstanding contributions to their organizations and communities. Each legislator is encouraged to submit one woman from their constituency as a means of recognizing their invaluable efforts. We only accept recommendations from state legislators but if you know of an ideal candidate, we recommend that you reach out to your representatives to offer a suggestion. The Commission opens Commonwealth Heroine nominations in early January and close them early April.

The nomination form below will ask for legislator information, honoree information, and a short paragraph (250 words or less) describing why the honoree is being nominated. Thank you in advance for your support in celebrating exceptional women across the Commonwealth! 
*Note that all information provided may be used publicly for event marketing (with the exception of contact information).

• The deadline to submit nominations is EOD Friday, March 3rd, 2026 by 5pm ET.  
• Honorees will be notified of their nomination in mid to late April.
• All elected officials to be notified of a call time for photos with honorees, will receive template media kit – we’d love to collaborate with your office to announce the great news! Email mcswpress@mass.gov with any questions.

SAVE THE DATE: All Commonwealth Heroines and the legislators who nominated them will be invited to attend the Class of 2026 Commonwealth Heroines Celebration on June 24, 2026, at the Massachusetts Statehouse.

Need additional Information?

Learn more by reading our Commonwealth Heroine FAQs here. Contact mcswprograms@mass.gov for additional information.