In Essex County, 20 women have been awarded the Commonwealth Heroine Award by the Massachusetts Commission on the Status of Women (MCSW) for their remarkable acts of service and invaluable efforts that define their communities. 

MCSW currently faces the largest class of women awarded for their significant work in Massachusetts, consisting of 147 awardees.

These women have been nominated by elected officials who have recognized their extraordinary efforts and acts of service despite being, according to MCSW, “Women who don’t often make the news, but who always make the difference.” 

Gov. Maura Healey also recognized the MCSW awardees: “Women across Massachusetts are making a difference for their communities day in and day out, and this year’s awardees are shining examples of the leadership we are proud of.” 

She added,  “Their dedication, compassion, and commitment to service are inspiring generations of leaders across our state, and we are thankful for all they do for our state. Congratulations to this year’s award winners!”

Lt. Gov. Kim Driscoll said, “Here in Massachusetts, we are no strangers to exceptional women leaders. From the State House to main streets to communities across the state, women are paving the way and showing up for their communities.” 

She added, “We are thrilled to congratulate this year’s awardees for all that they do for Massachusetts and can’t wait to see what they do next.”

In Essex County, the awardees that have been recognized for their endeavors consist of Gayla Bartlett, Anne Boris, Darby Connolly, Dianne Connolly, Grace Connolly, Ellen Crawford, Deborah Ann Eskenazi, Devan Ferreira, Kim Hearst, Audrey S. Jiménez, Wendy Joseph, Lori Marenda-Lang, Nancy Marino, Christina Minicucci, Erin Padilla, Ruth Pino, Shannon Scully, Nancy Stehfest, Heidi Whear, and Bonnie Zahorik.

Darby Connolly was nominated because of her consistent effort with the youth of Lynn as a loyal member of the Lynn Boys and Girls Club since 2018. Additionally, she has gained experience through her time as Director of Club Operations and Camp Director.  

Under Connolly’s guidance, the Drop-in and Teen Center has undergone a significant expansion, and Camp Creighton has been sold out, becoming a highly sought-after program. 

Connolly’s efforts have resulted in substantial growth for a multitude of children due to her vigilant work and care, curating a positive culture for her community. 

The progress achieved by the Commonwealth Heroines from Lynn doesn’t end there.

Audrey S. Jiménez has served at St. Mary’s School, undertaking a variety of different roles from a Spanish teacher to Director of Multicultural Affairs, Director of College and Career Counseling, and more. 

Jiménez cares not only for her community but also for the education of all students. She mentored Ukrainian students during a global crisis and proceeded to serve on Lynn’s Human Rights Commission for multiple years. 

Throughout her life, Jiménez has brought inclusivity and empowerment wherever she’s gone, constantly putting forth a valuable example for all around her. 

State Rep. Sean Reid, who nominated her for the award, said, “Jiménez embodies the spirit of this recognition through her dedicated service both professionally and in our community.”

Also from Lynn, Wendy Joseph, the owner of Wendy Joseph Designs, has been rewarded for her consistent effort in communication through art. 

Joseph has volunteered in artistic non-profit community-based spaces, speaking through her design. 

As a Museum curator at the Grand Army of the Republic Hall and Museum, Joseph has redirected attention to Lynn’s Civil War-era work, also participating in readings of Frederick Douglass’ “What to the Slave is the Fourth of July?” and other historical projects. 

Joseph’s commitment to conserving Lynn’s diverse historical narrative in union with her art has resonated with the community of Lynn, perhaps beyond that.

State Sen. Brendan Crighton, who nominated Joseph, said, “It has been wonderful to work with her. She’s a really tireless advocate for all things Lynn, in particular celebrating our rich history as well as our culture.” 

Crighton added, “She’s been a valued partner to us in the legislature, and oftentimes doesn’t get the praise and thanks she deserves. We thought it was appropriate to honor her in this way.” 

Additionally, Crighton felt “really grateful” that she was chosen for the award.  

“She’s a civic leader in many ways, and we really appreciate all that she does,” he said. 

Lynnfield resident Ellen Crawford participated in numerous grassroots campaigns, supporting the Market Street development and Lynnfield school building projects. 

Crawford has consistently shown her commitment to her community by joining and assisting several Lynnfield community groups. 

Throughout Crawford’s time in Lynnfield, she has led and supported numerous projects, from planting trees to fundraising for Lynnfield High School. 

Crawford has been an active parishioner for the last 44 years and has served as a religious education teacher.

State Rep. Bradley H. Jones Jr., who nominated Ellen Crawford, said, “Ellen Crawford’s many years of devotion to her community and volunteer work exemplify the high standards and exceptional qualities that define a Commonwealth Heroine.” 

He added, “Ellen truly deserves to be recognized for the many positive contributions she has made to the Lynnfield community over the years.”

Jones said, “It was an honor to nominate her for this award as a way to acknowledge her longtime support for the Lynnfield Public Schools.”

In Peabody, Deborah Ann Eskenazi has contributed decades of service. 

During her years of service, she has served as president of Carroll School PTO and co-president of Peabody High School Performing Arts Parent Group. Eskenazi has demonstrated her affection for others while volunteering as a cuddler for newborns in a special unit at Salem Hospital. 

She also assists at the Citizens Inn pantry before coming home to aid her neighbors in career conquests and serves on the Peabody Historical Society Board, as well as the Historical Commission, where she aided in the launching of the Historical Plaque Program.

Being honored with the 2025 Mary Upton Ferrin Award, Eskenazi continues to hold honest compassion for her city and resilience in the upkeep of her work. 

Swampscott resident Heidi Whear, who retired this month as the town’s director of aging services, has used her proficiency in the subject to establish an environment in which residents age with independence and comfort. 

Coincidentally, Whear’s mother, Joan Sawyer, was also a Commonwealth Heroine in 2008. Having been nominated for her work with the Caleb Foundation, a non-profit real estate corporation designed to help struggling families.

Following in her mother’s footsteps, Whear has offered her time to ensure the progression and development of innovative programs concentrated on enhancing the quality of life for individuals with dementia. 

As the senior population accelerates in Swampscott, Whear has advocated for aging-in-place services as a member of Swampscott’s Council on Aging. Whear is also the founding president of Seaglass Village, a non-profit organization geared towards helping seniors of Marblehead.

Due to Whear’s constant efforts, older generations may continue to receive support in their aging journey. 

State Rep. Jenny Armini, who co-nominated Heidi Whear alongside Crighton, said, “My wanting to honor her comes from this personal experience of watching her work and seeing this deep conviction that people of all ages should live a healthy, positive, active life and watching this come to fruition right before my eyes.”