- Executive Office of Veterans Services
Media Contact
Jacqueline Manning
Boston, MA — The Executive Office of Veterans Services' (EOVS) Women Veterans Network (WVN) is now accepting nominations for the 2025 Deborah Sampson Award, which recognizes a Massachusetts woman veteran who has demonstrated exceptional leadership, service, and advocacy for fellow women veterans.
The deadline to submit nominations is April 25, 2025. The award will be presented at the annual Women Veterans Appreciation Day Ceremony in June.
“The Deborah Sampson Award is an opportunity to highlight the extraordinary contributions of women veterans who go above and beyond to support their fellow service members,” said Veterans Services Secretary Jon Santiago. “Women have long played a vital role in our nation’s military, and it is critical that we continue to recognize their leadership and sacrifices.”
The Deborah Sampson Award is named after the Revolutionary War hero Deborah Sampson, who disguised herself as a man to serve in the Continental Army. Her legacy lives on through the countless women veterans who continue to lead and serve their communities today.
“Women veterans bring unmatched resilience and dedication to everything they do, both in and out of uniform,” said Deputy Secretary Andrea Gayle-Bennett. “This award ensures that we uplift and celebrate those who are making a lasting impact on the veteran community.”
The Women Veterans Network (WVN) is Massachusetts’ only state-run program dedicated to serving women veterans by connecting them to resources, fostering peer support, and raising awareness of their unique experiences and contributions. Through this award, WVN continues its mission to elevate the voices of women veterans and recognize their impact statewide.
“We encourage everyone to take a moment and nominate a woman veteran who has made a difference,” said Jessica Frost, Director of the Women Veterans Network. “This is our chance to celebrate their commitment, strength, and service to others.”
How to Nominate
To submit a nomination, visit the Deborah Sampson Nomination page and provide:
An overview of the nominee’s military service and achievements
Details on challenges she has overcome
Her contributions to the veteran community
Why she is an outstanding candidate for this honor
For more information, visit mass.gov.WVN or contact EOVSWomenVets@mass.gov.
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Media Contact
Executive Office of Veterans Services
EOVS provides our veterans and their families with quality support services and directs an emergency financial assistance program for those veterans and their dependents who are in need.