FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Shareen Davis Honored as the 2026 Mercy Otis Warren Cape Cod Woman of the Year
May 13, 2026 (Barnstable, MA) –As the nation marks the 250th anniversary of the American Revolution, the Mercy Otis Warren Cape Cod Woman of the Year Committee is proud to announce Shareen Davis of Chatham as the 2026 recipient of this prestigious honor, now celebrating its 25th year recognizing extraordinary women across Cape Cod.
The milestone anniversary offers a timely opportunity to reflect on the enduring legacy of Mercy Otis Warren — the West Barnstable-born writer, political thinker, and advocate whose voice helped shape the nation’s founding ideals.
A thirteenth-generation Cape Codder, Davis is recognized for her leadership in public service, sustainable fisheries, and environmental advocacy. She was nominated by Shanna Nealy for her commitment to protecting Cape Cod’s heritage, working waterfronts, and year-round communities.
“Across all aspects of her work, Shareen Davis exemplifies the qualities that Mercy Otis Warren championed,” wrote nominator Shanna Nealy. “She is a bridge-builder, a listener, and an advocate for the people and places she loves.”
Davis has spent decades advocating for Cape Cod through a unique combination of civic leadership, maritime work, environmental stewardship, and artistic expression. A commercial weir fisher and founding member of the Chatham Harvesters Cooperative, she has helped preserve one of Cape Cod’s oldest sustainable fishing traditions while supporting independent fishermen and strengthening the region’s “Blue Economy.”
Now completing her third term on the Chatham Select Board, Davis has become known as a thoughtful and solutions-driven public servant. Her work has included advancing affordable and attainable housing initiatives, protecting working waterfronts, and preserving access for commercial and recreational fishermen.
Davis is also widely respected as a regional advocate for ocean health and coastal resilience. Her leadership has extended beyond Chatham through service roles such as president of the Cape and Islands Municipal Leaders Association, where she helped bring together municipal leaders around shared regional challenges.
In addition to her public service and environmental work, Davis is an accomplished professional photographer whose work captures the beauty and working life of Cape Cod. She has long supported the arts community and understands the role creativity and culture play in sustaining vibrant communities.
The Barnstable County Board of Regional Commissioners endorsed the selection of Shareen Davis during their regular meeting held this morning.
Award Ceremony Details
Shareen Davis will be honored on Wednesday, June 10, 2026, at 7 p.m. at the historic 1717 Meetinghouse in West Barnstable. A reception will follow, and members of the public are invited to attend. The award, a bronze maquette inspired by the Mercy Otis Warren statue outside the Barnstable Superior Courthouse, is created by Cape Cod artist Elizabeth DeCicco.
Our Thanks
This award is made possible through the support of Cape Cod Five Cents Savings Bank and Barnstable County. We also extend our thanks to the Cape Cod Times, iHeartRadio, Cape Cod Broadcasting, and Cape Cod’s X for their media support.
About Mercy Otis Warren
Born in West Barnstable in 1728, Mercy Otis Warren was a writer, political thinker, and outspoken advocate for liberty during the American Revolution. As the nation commemorates the 250th anniversary of the Revolutionary era, her legacy remains especially relevant. Often called the “First Lady of the American Revolution,” she used her plays, poems, and political writings to support colonial independence and champion civic engagement, including a Bill of Rights. Her legacy continues to inspire this annual award honoring Cape Cod women who demonstrate leadership, service, and community impact.
