WESTBOROUGH, MA — Karen Henderson of Westborough has been named a 2026 Commonwealth Heroine by the Massachusetts Commission on the Status of Women (MCSW), an annual recognition honoring women whose leadership, volunteerism and community service make a lasting difference across Massachusetts.
Henderson was co-nominated by State Reps. Hannah Kane and Kate Donaghue as part of the commission's 23rd Annual Commonwealth Heroines program.
The Class of 2026 includes a record 145 women from communities throughout the state. The award recognizes women who are making a significant impact in their communities, often without seeking recognition for their efforts.
Henderson has played a prominent role in Westborough through her professional and volunteer work. She serves as general manager of Westborough TV, where she helps provide local programming that informs residents and gives community members a platform to share their stories and perspectives.
Beyond her work at Westborough TV, Henderson mentors local high school and college students pursuing journalism and serves on the board of the Charlotte Spinney Scholarship Program. Her previous community service includes time on the Westborough School Committee, the Economic Development Committee, the Project Graduation board and as a youth athletics coach.
"I'm honored to co-nominate Karen Henderson of Westborough as a 2026 Commonwealth Heroine," Kane said in a statement. "Karen's numerous contributions and her service to Westborough, and her mentorship of local young people, have made an incredibly positive impact in the community. Westborough is fortunate to have Karen as a community member."
Donaghue also praised Henderson's contributions.
"It was an absolute honor to nominate Karen Henderson for a Commonwealth Heroine Award," Donaghue said. "In addition to her current nationally recognized work at Westborough Cable TV, she has supported young people in many ways, making a difference in lives across the community."
Henderson said the award reflects the work of many people throughout the town.
"I am so honored to have been selected for this award," Henderson said. "I love being an active member of our community, and at Westborough TV, we've had the privilege of shining a light (and camera!) on the wonderful things happening right here in town. It's easy to look good at your job when you're surrounded by neighbors who do so much for one another — Westborough TV is just the storyteller."
The Commonwealth Heroines Class of 2026 was recognized on Wednesday during a ceremony at the Massachusetts State House's Gardner Auditorium in Boston.
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