Celebration of Today's Woman 2026
This year, we recognize and celebrate Maria Cunha as the recipient of our Strong, Smart, and Bold Award!
At Girls Inc. of Greater Lowell, we aim to do our part in cultivating a “Greater Lowell.” As we focus daily on preparing girls to be smart, strong, and bold, we also recognize the importance of celebrating women who have exemplified these characteristics personally and professionally, yesterday and today. In that light, we are proud to recognize an enduring example of someone who has epitomized the meanings of strong, smart, and bold throughout her service to the people, life, and promise of Greater Lowell.
This year, we recognize and celebrate Maria Cunha as the recipient of our Strong, Smart, and Bold award.
Maria Cunha, for countless years, has been a vital player in serving our communities and the organizations that help to make our village a safe and welcoming place to live and grow. Whether one knows her personally or through evidence of her work, Maria moves with purpose in any role or space she engages. A sampling of those includes:
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daughter; sister; wife; mother; and grandmother
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immigrant; community partner; mentor; and role model
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Theodore Edson Parker Foundation; Office of Congressman Martin T. Meehan; Middlesex Community College; International Institute of Lowell; and Lowell Community Health Center
The poet Amanda Gorman says: “There is always light, if only we’re brave enough to see it. If only we’re brave enough to be it.” These words aptly describe how Maria Cunha has shown initiative and responsiveness in helping others regardless of season, situation, or circumstance.
“Maria is someone who is consistently looking to make our community stronger, but who never looks to receive any credit for it.”
One nominator offered the following words, speaking duly of Maria’s light:
“Maria is someone who is consistently looking to make our community stronger, but who never looks to receive any credit for it. She has worked tirelessly for our community. Even in retirement, it feels like she is still everywhere when she is needed. She consistently advocates for a level playing field for those whose voices aren’t heard and have the least access to resources. So many speak of her leadership in reverent tones, crediting her with changing their view of what they were capable of achieving, providing a roadmap to achieve their dreams and the accountability and cheerleading necessary to get there.”
Please join Girls Inc. of Greater Lowell in recognizing and celebrating Maria Cunha as our CTW 2026 Honoree!