PEABODY — Deborah Ann Eskenazi’s lifelong dedication to the Peabody community was recognized Wednesday afternoon at the State House, where she was honored as a recipient of the 2026 Commonwealth Heroine Award by the Massachusetts Commission on the Status of Women.

Nominated for the award by State Rep. Thomas P. Walsh (D-Peabody), Eskenazi was celebrated for her prolific and impactful volunteerism for many local organizations, including Salem Hospital’s Special Care Unit for newborns, her mentoring at the Citizens Inn food pantry, and her program assistance in the memory care unit at Chelsea Jewish Life, all while holding prominent roles in several civic organizations advocating for Peabody’s history and heritage.

“I was pleased to nominate Deb for induction into this year’s class of Commonwealth Heroines,” Walsh said. “Deb’s genuine desire to help others is evident in her passion for helping neighbors in our community, her many years of volunteer work, and her infectious civic pride, all of which make Peabody a warmer, kinder place for all.”

While raising her family, Eskenazi’s involvement in the Carroll School led her to become President of the Carroll School PTO and later the Co-President of the Peabody High School Performing Arts parent group. From her early leadership roles in local school organizations, Eskenazi has dedicated her time to bettering the community she loves.

In addition to the many nonprofits she volunteers for, Eskenazi also serves on the boards of the Peabody Historical Society and the Historical Commission, where she helped launch the successful Commercial Historical Plaque Program. Eskenazi is also a supporter of the Peabody Garden Club and the Sutton House, and she fundraises for Bridgewell Inc.

For her demonstrated resilience in overcoming unique challenges, Eskenazi was recently recognized by the Peabody Area Chamber of Commerce with the 2025 Mary Upton Ferrin Award.

Presented annually by the Massachusetts Commission on the Status of Women, Commonwealth Heroine honorees are women “who don’t make the news, but make the difference.”