Rep. Simon Cataldo Nominates Julie Viola for Commonwealth Pride Award
Rep. Cataldo and Julie Viola after the awards ceremony.
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
BOSTON, MA — June 17, 2026
Media Contact:
Anna O’SullivanOffice of State Representative Simon Cataldo
(617) 722-2396
State Representative Simon Cataldo is proud to announce that Julie Viola of Concord has been selected as the recipient of the Commonwealth Pride Award for the 14th Middlesex District. The award, presented by the Massachusetts LGBTQ+ Legislative Caucus, recognizes LGBTQ+ individuals who have made exceptional contributions to their communities and to the Commonwealth.
“Julie exemplifies the spirit of service and community engagement that makes our district so special,” said Representative Cataldo. “Whether through her work expanding access to mental health care, her leadership in our public schools, or her commitment to strengthening local institutions, Julie has made a lasting impact on the 14th Middlesex. I am honored to nominate her for this well-deserved recognition.”
Viola is a healthcare marketing executive and entrepreneur who currently serves as Head of Marketing at a national mental health company. She is also the Founder and Chief Strategist of Cody Health Ventures, a healthcare marketing consulting firm.
Beyond her professional accomplishments, Viola has dedicated herself to public service and volunteer leadership throughout the Concord-Carlisle community. She serves as President of the Friends of Emerson Health, supporting the region’s leading community hospital. From 2023 to 2025, she served as an elected member of the Carlisle School Committee and chaired the Concord-Carlisle Regional School Committee, helping guide local education during a pivotal period for students and families.
In 2024, Viola launched the ‘Wiched Generation Podcast, which shares personal stories and expert perspectives to support dual caregivers balancing the needs of both children and aging family members.
"Showing up as my authentic self has always been paramount to me, whether as an entrepreneur, an elected official, a mom, a caregiver, or a colleague,” said Julie Viola. “I have been fortunate to spend my career and volunteer service strengthening communities through advocacy, from advancing caregiver support initiatives on a global stage at the UN the past few years to expanding access to mental health resources here at home. Being part of the LGBTQ+ community is something I am proud of, and this recognition is especially meaningful because it celebrates the value of living and leading authentically. We are all shaped by many experiences, identities, and roles, and I hope my journey demonstrates that embracing who you are can be a powerful force for service, connection, and positive change."
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The Commonwealth Pride Awards celebrate LGBTQ+ leaders from across Massachusetts whose contributions strengthen their communities and inspire others through service, advocacy, and leadership. The awards ceremony was held on June 17, 2026, at the Massachusetts State House.
