Winthrop’s Amy Epstein honored as 2026 Commonwealth Heroine at State House

On June 24, 2026, the Massachusetts Commission on the Status of Women (MCSW) joined forces with state legislators to celebrate the Class of 2026 Commonwealth Heroines at the Massachusetts State House. Among this year’s distinguished honorees was Winthrop’s own Amy Epstein, the Executive Director of CASA (Community Action for Safe Alternatives).

Epstein, who was nominated for the prestigious honor by State Representative Jeffrey Turco, was recognized for her outstanding contributions and tireless dedication to the local community. During the ceremony, Representative Turco proudly presented Epstein with a formal citation from the House of Representatives, commemorating her extraordinary efforts.

A Dedicated Leader in Youth Development and Public Health

Epstein is a seasoned leader in prevention and public health, bringing more than 20 years of experience to her role as Executive Director of CASA. Her commitment to strengthening protective factors for local youth is rooted in decades of hands-on work with young people across diverse settings, ranging from children’s museums to school communities.

Recognized as a prominent voice in youth development and prevention, Epstein has dedicated her career to fostering environments where young people can thrive.

Key pillars of her impactful work in the community include:

• More than two decades of dedicated leadership in public health, prevention, and youth-focused development.

• A diverse background of hands-on engagement in school environments, museums, and community spaces.

• A specialized focus on coalition-building, partnering closely with local stakeholders to implement sustainable, collaborative strategies.

• A strategic, community-centered approach designed to reduce risks and cultivate healthier, safer environments for both youth and families.

Celebrating Unsung Heroes Across the Commonwealth

Each year, the MCSW partners with state legislators to identify women who make outstanding, often unsung contributions to their organizations and communities. Elected officials are encouraged to nominate one woman from their constituency to recognize their invaluable efforts and extraordinary acts of service—individuals who are making a significant difference in their neighborhoods but are not necessarily making headlines.

This year, the Class of 2026 Commonwealth Heroines is comprised of a historic 147 women from across the state, marking the largest class awarded to date by the MCSW. These honorees represent leaders in industry, business, nonprofit work, advocacy, and community service whose initiatives make a daily difference across Massachusetts.

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

“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,” said Lieutenant Governor Kim Driscoll. “We’re thrilled to congratulate this year’s awardees for all that they do for Massachusetts and can’t wait to see what they do next.”

The Massachusetts Commission on the Status of Women is an independent state agency created in 1998 to provide a permanent, effective voice for women of the Commonwealth and to promote their rights, opportunities, and equality for all.