Waltham’s Maura Sullivan honored as Commonwealth Heroine

Maura Sullivan, a Waltham resident and CEO of The Arc of Massachusetts, has been named a 2026 Commonwealth Heroine by the Massachusetts Commission on the Status of Women.

Sullivan was nominated by state Rep. Thomas M. Stanley, who recognized her advocacy on behalf of individuals with disabilities and their families. She was honored during the commission’s annual Commonwealth Heroines Awards ceremony on June 24.

“Maura’s long-time advocacy has helped so many individuals with disabilities, their families and their caregivers,” Stanley said in a statement. “She is more than deserving of this recognition.”

The Commonwealth Heroines program honors women across Massachusetts who make significant contributions to their communities, often without widespread public recognition.

Sullivan leads The Arc of Massachusetts, a statewide advocacy organization serving people with intellectual and developmental disabilities. In addition to her professional role, she is the mother of three children, including two sons with autism, intellectual disabilities and complex medical needs — an experience that has informed her advocacy work.

According to Stanley, Sullivan has played a key role in advancing several pieces of legislation, including Nicky’s Law, autism training requirements for police officers and the recently passed “Blue Envelope” bill, which aims to improve communication between law enforcement and individuals with autism during traffic stops.

The Massachusetts Commission on the Status of Women selects Commonwealth Heroines annually in partnership with state legislators, highlighting women who make a difference in their communities through leadership, service and advocacy.