Patty Keanneally Donovan, a local trailblazer, is Boston’s first female firefighter and has served the city since 1984. She was inspired to join the department by her father and two brothers, all of whom also served as Boston firefighters.

She left nursing school, trading scrubs for bunker gear, and became the only woman in a class of 56 appointed to the Boston Fire Department. Joining 1,500 male colleagues, Patty became a natural advocate for women in the fire service and a pioneer for those who would follow in her footsteps.

Though she says she originally took the test “for fun,” that decision turned into more than 40 years of dedicated service to her community. Spending over 24 years on firetrucks, and the last 18 in fire investigation, Patty has built a career defined by both frontline response and detailed investigative work, becoming a respected and enduring presence in the Boston Fire Department.

Being the nation’s oldest fire department, Boston’s Fire Department carries a deep legacy of service and dedication. Patty Kenneally Donovan, has carried out that service like no other.
With the goal of encouraging more women to join the fire service, Patty reflects on the impact she’s seen through her work, noting that change has become more visible in recent years. Today, there are about 35 female firefighters and counting who have joined the Boston Fire Department. She says “It’s taken a long time. I’ve seen more women on the job in the past 5 – 8 years than in the first 30.” Her career stands as both a testament to progress made and a reminder of the work still ahead in building a more representative fire service.

We are honored to recognize Patty Keanneally Donovan as our 2026 Impact Free Jack nominee for her role in shaping both the legacy and the future of the Boston Fire Department. Her decades of service have left a lasting impact on the department and the community it serves. She stands as a foundational figure whose career continues to inspire the next generation of firefighters.

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The Free Jacks are looking for Impact Free Jack nominees from all walks of life and every corner of New England who have the power to transcend boundaries and create a lasting, positive impact on the lives of others. Honorees will be celebrated at each of the Free Jacks’ home games.

This partnership with Massachusetts State Lottery aims to highlight and reward everyday heroes who embody the values of service and community, aligning with the Free Jacks’ mission of making a positive impact both on and off the field.

If you have a colleague, neighbor, friend, or loved one that deserves recognition for their community contributions, please nominate them here.

For more opportunities to engage with the Free Jacks community, stay updated on future Free Jacks matches, festivals, and announcements through the Free Jacks’ news page: www.freejacks.com/news