2026 Community Impact Award recognizes her decades of service to South County
By Will Collette
When Cathy and I returned to Rhode Island in 2001 to live in
Charlestown, Donna became one of our first friends and remains so these 25 years later. We were proud supporters of
her as she ably represented House District 36 which includes all of
Charlestown. I worked on her campaigns and during each legislative session as a
volunteer researcher.
During that time, Donna became a legislative leader and one
of the most stalwart defenders of the environment. But whether it was getting
major legislation passed, constituent service or getting grants for local
charities, Donna Walsh got the job done through hard work with people in the
district and with integrity and determination.
Before her decade representing Charlestown in the General Assembly,
she also served as state Senator and member of the Charlestown Town Council. She
is fondly remembered by many in the area as “Mrs. Walsh” for her 38 years as a
teacher at Chariho.
Though she no longer holds elected office, Donna now serves
on the boards of numerous local non-profit charities such as the Society of St.
Vincent de Paul where she serves as President.
Congratulations, Donna!
