Senator Jake Oliveira names Karen “Jack” Magnus Commonwealth Heroine

Boston – Each year, the Massachusetts Commission on the Status of Women (MCSW) partners with state legislators to identify women who make outstanding contributions to their organizations and communities. These women, nominated by their elected officials, may not often make headlines, but they are the backbone of our neighborhoods, the ones quietly shaping a stronger Commonwealth.  

This year, Senator Jake Oliveira (D-Ludlow) has proudly nominated Karen "Jack" Magnus of Chicopee as a 2025 Commonwealth Heroine.  

"I am honored to nominate Karen 'Jack' Magnus as a 2025 Commonwealth Heroine," said Senator Jake Oliveira. "Karen's lifetime of service to our country, her ongoing leadership at Westover Air Reserve Base, and her commitment to building stronger partnerships between the base and the broader community make her an extraordinary example of integrity, strength, and impact. She is not only a mentor and leader to women in uniform, she is a builder of bridges between military and civilian life, and a passionate advocate for both people and the environment."  

Karen Magnus currently serves as the Director of Mission Sustainment & Community Partnership at Westover Air Reserve Base. She moved to Massachusetts in 2015 for her final active-duty assignment as Mission Support Group Commander for the 439th Airlift Wing, retiring from the Air Force in 2020 after 33 years of distinguished service.  

In her current civilian role, Karen acts as a key advisor to the Wing Commander, leading efforts that shape long-term policies impacting Westover's airspace, land, and operational capabilities. She manages the Mission Sustainment Team, the Community Partnership Program, and the Mission Assurance Program—essential components of ensuring Westover's strategic viability in western Massachusetts.  

Beyond her military and civic contributions, Karen is a passionate mentor to women in and out of uniform. She holds a master's degree from Strayer University and previously served at the Pentagon in Air Force Reserve Plans & Programs. Outside of her professional work, Karen is an avid equestrian and a longtime advocate for animal rescue. Her love of science and the human body fuels a lifelong curiosity in medical research and innovation.  

The MCSW will celebrate the 22nd Annual Commonwealth Heroines Class of 2025 on Thursday, June 26, 2025, at the Massachusetts Statehouse in the Gardner Auditorium.  


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The Massachusetts Commission on the Status of Women (MCSW) is an independent state agency created in 1998 to provide a permanent, effective voice for women of the Commonwealth and to promote their rights, opportunities, and equality for all.