Four honored as 2026 ‘Heroes of Waltham’

The Waltham Democratic City CommitteeWaltham Democratic City Committeehas announced this year’s “Heroes of Waltham,” recognizing four individuals and organizations for their exceptional service and leadership in the community. The honorees are Clarence Richardson, Nadene B. Stein, the Waltham Educators Association and The Waltham Times.

Richardson, a longtime leader in local Democratic politics, was nominated for his years of dedicated work rebuilding the city’s Democratic network. Formerly treasurer of the WDCC, Richardson later became its first African American chair, helping the organization recover from the challenges of the pandemic and reenergize civic engagement. Beyond his party work, Richardson serves as executive director of the Massachusetts Chapter of the National Academy of Elder Law Attorneys and has provided counsel to several community institutions, including the Waltham Partnership for Youth and Gore Place.

Stein, who will retire this year after nearly 25 years with Waltham Public Schools, is being recognized for her decades of educational leadership and community service. Starting as principal of Northeast Elementary School, she rose to the role of Assistant Superintendent of Pupil Services, advocating especially for students with disabilities. Stein also serves as president of the boards of both Healthy Waltham and the Waltham Land Trust, and has long been active in local Democratic leadership.

The Waltham Educators Association, representing more than 900 public school employees, was honored for its advocacy on behalf of students and education professionals. The union’s recent efforts included taking a strong public stance against U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement presence in Waltham schools and leading successful contract negotiations that secured long-awaited pay raises, expanded parental leave and other benefits for educators.

The Waltham Times, founded in 2024 to restore local news coverage after years of media consolidation, was recognized for “filling a void in local journalism” and promoting informed civic engagement. Co-founder June Kinoshita represented the paper at a recent WDCC panel on the role of local news in democracy. Since its launch, the publication has become a trusted source for accurate, community-focused reporting.

“These four Heroes exemplify the courage, compassion and civic spirit that keep our city thriving,” the WDCC said in its announcement. The honorees will be recognized at the Heroes of Waltham celebration on May 3.

Reservations for the event are available through March 15 for a suggested donation of $40 per seat, increasing to $50 thereafter. Details are available at watchcitydems.com/heroes.