Cyndy Jones Honored With 2024 Mercy Otis Warren Cape Cod Woman of the Year Award
Cyndy Jones accepts the 2024 Mercy Otis Warren Cape Cod Woman of the Year Award. Photo generously provided by staff at Heroes in Transition.
Last night, under the historic roof of The 1717 Meetinghouse, Cyndy Jones, President and Co-founder of Heroes in Transition, was awarded the 2024 Mercy Otis Warren Cape Cod Woman of the Year Award. This prestigious accolade honors a woman who embodies leadership, service, and the legacy of Mercy Otis Warren—a fitting tribute to Jones’ tireless dedication to veterans and their families.
Upon receiving the award, Jones shared a heartfelt message: “To receive this award is humbling. For me, it is knowing I am headed in the right direction—that I am not there yet and it is not time for me to rest on my laurels. As long as there are tears to dry, there is work to be done.” Her words resonated deeply with everyone present, reflecting her unwavering commitment to her cause.
Barnstable County is proud to be one of the sponsors of this event. Cyndy Jones is a deserving recipient whose leadership and service profoundly impact our community. The award, which recognizes women who reflect the spirit of Mercy Otis Warren, is a testament to Jones’ outstanding contributions.
A Journey of Dedication and Service
Cyndy Jones’ journey began in the wake of a personal tragedy—the loss of her son, US Marine Captain Eric Jones. Together with her late husband Ken, Jones founded Heroes in Transition, a nonprofit organization that addresses the gaps in services for veterans and their families. From providing emotional support animals to family support programs, Heroes in Transition has become a cornerstone of support for those who serve our nation.
Timothy Whelan, who nominated Jones, highlighted her resilience and dedication: “In the wake of their family tragedy, Cyndy and Ken Jones made a conscious decision to take their son’s sacrifice and make something beautiful out of this tragedy by founding a 501(c)(3) non-profit we now know as Heroes in Transition. They well knew Eric’s devotion to the welfare of his Marines and wanted to honor his memory by continuing that devotion in his honor.”
Silene Gordon, another nominator, praised Jones’ broader community impact: “Cape Cod is incredibly fortunate to have Cyndy Jones of Mashpee serving Barnstable County as a pillar of strength, grace, humility, and community spirit. While Cyndy is widely known for her commitment to supporting veterans on Cape Cod, her commitment to volunteerism and education extends beyond her work with veterans and makes her an exemplary choice to be the Mercy Otis Warren Cape Cod Woman of the Year 2024.”
A Night to Remember
The ceremony, held at the 1717 Meetinghouse on Meetinghouse Way, saw the award being presented by last year’s recipient, Amanda Converse. The bronze statuette, created by Barnstable artist David Lewis, replicates the statue of Mercy Otis Warren located on the Superior Court House lawn in Barnstable Village.
Mercy Otis Warren, born in West Barnstable in 1728, was a playwright, historian, and advocate for liberty and the Bill of Rights. Her pioneering work in women’s causes and her remarkable advocacy during the Revolutionary War continue to inspire generations.
We extend our heartfelt congratulations to Cyndy Jones on receiving this well-deserved honor. Thank you for all you do for Heroes in Transition, for those you serve, and for our community. We also thank the Barnstable Village Association, West Barnstable Civic Association, and Cape Cod 5 for recognizing Cyndy and the difference she continues to make in our special community.
Past Recipients of the Mercy Otis Warren Cape Cod Woman of the Year Award:
- 2002: Marion R. Vuilleumier
- 2003: Jean D. Gardner
- 2004: Eugenia Fortes
- 2005: Felicia R. Penn
- 2006: Bonnie M. Snow
- 2007: Lynne M. Poyant
- 2008: Josephine P. Ives
- 2009: Mary L. LeClair
- 2010: Gloria W. Rudman
- 2011: Susan A. French
- 2012: Judy Walden Scarafile
- 2013: Dorothy A. Savarese
- 2014: Mary Lou Petitt
- 2015: Michelle L. DeSilva
- 2016: Ann M. Williams
- 2017: Dolores Holden Daluz
- 2018: Nancy Viall Shoemaker
- 2019: Juliet Bernstein
- 2020: Mimi McConnell
- 2021: Wendy Northcross
- 2022: Angelina Chilaka
- 2023: Amanda Converse
Barnstable County is honored to support this award and celebrate the remarkable women who continue to shape our community with their leadership and dedication. Congratulations, Cyndy Jones!
