Each year the Massachusetts Commission on the Status of Women (MCSW) partners with state legislators to identify women who make outstanding contributions to their organizations and in their communities. Elected officials are encouraged to submit one woman from their constituency as a means of recognizing their invaluable efforts and extraordinary acts of service, who are making a big difference in their communities but not necessarily making the news.

This year, the Class of 2025 Commonwealth Heroines comprises more than 125 women from across the state, leaders in industry, business, nonprofit, advocacy, and more. The MCSW will be celebrating the 22nd Annual Commonwealth Heroines Class of 2025 on Thursday, June 26, 2025, at the Massachusetts Statehouse in the Gardner Auditorium.

“I’m honored to nominate Holly Gallerani as a 2025 Commonwealth Heroine,” said  State Rep. Michael J. Soter (R–Bellingham). “Holly embodies the spirit of selfless service that defines our communities. For 15 years, she served as Uxbridge Town Clerk and has been a driving force behind countless local initiatives, including 28 years of Uxbridge First Holiday Night and many years on the Uxbridge Fourth of July Committee.”

“Her compassion shines through her ownership of Mendon Street Kitchen for 10 years, where she welcomes everyone and provides invaluable support by offering volunteering jobs to struggling homeless citizens, teaching them job skills, and ensuring they have food and whatever else they need. Holly’s commitment to enriching the lives of others is truly remarkable, as evidenced by numerous accolades including being named a Zip Trip Uxbridge Hometown Hero in July 2018 and receiving the National Society Daughters of the American Revolution Community Service Award in March 2020. Holly Gallerani consistently makes a profound difference in Uxbridge and the wider Commonwealth.”

“The Commonwealth Heroines are women who don’t make the news, but make all the difference in their communities,” said MCSW Chairwoman Mary-dith Tuitt. “Thousands of women in every community across the Commonwealth perform unheralded acts on a daily basis that make our homes, neighborhoods, cities, and towns better places to live. Commonwealth Heroines use their time, talent, spirit, and enthusiasm to enrich the lives of others in their community. They are mentors, volunteers, and innovators - they are the glue that keeps a community together.”