The Benedictine Sisters of Erie Receive the NASS Margaret Chase Smith Award

For Immediate Release
January 29, 2026

Washington, D.C. – The National Association of Secretaries of State (NASS) presented the Margaret Chase Smith American Democracy Award for political courage to the Benedictine Sisters of Erie, who used their platform to combat false election information and promote civic engagement during the 2024 election. 

The award was accepted by Sister Linda Romey, Benedictine Sisters of Erie’s Coordinator of Communications and Development, in a ceremony held on Jan. 29, during the NASS 2026 Winter Conference. They were originally nominated by Pennsylvania Secretary of the Commonwealth Al Schmidt. 

“In keeping with NASS’ own #TrustedInfo initiative, the sisters used their visible platform to urge all Americans to be discerning consumers of social media and to rely on trusted sources of election information,” Pennsylvania Secretary of the Commonwealth Al Schmidt said. “I nominated them for this award because they are models of positive and constructive civic engagement.” 

“Rooted in a long tradition of service to their community, the Sisters remind us all that truth and compassion are essential to our democracy,” said NASS President and Mississippi Secretary of State Michael Watson. 

Award recipients are recognized for individual acts of political courage, uncommon character and selfless action in the realm of public service. Learn more about the Margaret Chase Smith American Democracy Award here. 

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Media Contacts:

Maria Benson, Senior Director of Communications
mbenson@nass.org | 202-624-3528

Brittany Hamilton, Communications and Special Projects Manager
bhamilton@nass.org