WORCESTER—The Massachusetts Women’s History Center (MWHC) is calling on the public to help shape history. Starting this week, the organization is accepting nominations for the inaugural class of the Massachusetts Women’s Hall of Fame — a new statewide initiative honoring both contemporary and historical women, as well as organizations that have profoundly impacted the Commonwealth and beyond.
That means you, Worcester.
Nominations are open, and run through Sept. 25, and submissions can be made online at mawomenshistory.org. The Hall of Fame is seeking input from historians, scholars, and members of the public to recognize women who have made lasting contributions to society — whether through groundbreaking work in government, science, the arts, activism, or other fields.
As part of Massachusetts’ observance of the 250th anniversary of American independence in 2026, the first class of inductees will include historic women from the Revolutionary Era whose efforts helped shape both the Commonwealth and the nation.
The MWHC, a virtual nonprofit organization and the successor to Suffrage100MA, was formed in 2024 to spotlight the achievements of Massachusetts women from all backgrounds. The Hall of Fame is its flagship initiative. Over the years, Suffrage100MA worked with more than 200 partner organizations to uplift the stories of suffragists and women’s rights pioneers — a mission now expanded by the MWHC to include centuries of untold women’s history.
While the Hall is a statewide endeavor, it raises a timely question for Worcester: who from the Heart of the Commonwealth should be recognized?
Worcester has long been home to powerful female leaders and trailblazing organizations — from the site of the first National Woman’s Rights Convention in 1850, to current community groups and activists shaping the city’s future. Could someone from Worcester’s past — or present — be among the first honored? Local historians, educators, and residents are encouraged to nominate individuals or groups they believe have made a monumental difference.
To learn more about eligibility or to submit a nomination, visit mawomenshistory.org.
Have news, tips, or a story worth telling? Reach Editor Charlene Arsenault at carsenault@theworcesterguardian.org—because good stories (and great scoops) deserve to be shared.
