At the 2017 Primetime Emmy Awards, Ann Dowd was awarded “Outstanding Supporting Actress in a Drama Series”. Dowd, a Holyoke native, won the Emmy for her role in The Handmaid’s Tale on Hulu as Aunt Lydia. Upon the announcement of her win, Dowd was not the only one bursting with excitement and pride, her hometown city of Holyoke was too.

“I am so happy for Ann! She was very smart and always had a smile on her face” said Laurie Messier, a Holyoke native who Dowd used to babysit for. “I’m sure her brothers and sisters are thrilled for her!”

Dowd is one of seven siblings. She grew up in Holyoke, and went to The Williston Northampton School. She later attended college at the College of the Holy Cross in Worcester, Massachusetts. She beat out a tough competition for the Emmy Award including Uzo Aduba (Orange is the New Black), Millie Bobby Brown (Stranger Things), Chrissy Metz (This Is Us), Thandie Newton (Westworld), and co-star Samira Wiley (The Handmaid’s Tale).

This was Dowd’s first time as an Emmy nominee. She was nominated for Outstanding Supporting Actress in a Drama Series, as well as Best Guest Actress in a Drama Series for her appearance on The Leftovers as Patti Levin.

Her legacy stretches farther than just acting, however. She adds this Emmy to her collection of other awards, including the 60th Annual JFK National Award, presented to her by the Holyoke Saint Patrick’s Day Parade Committee this past year. Ann has also been awarded the National Board of Review Award For Best Supporting Actress.

“There were lots of kids on our street, and I’m so proud that someone from Madison Ave. made it big. She is a nice person from a great family,” said Laurie Messier.

In an often underestimated city like Holyoke, it is people like Ann Dowd who serve as a true testament to what Holyokers are made of: determination, drive, and strength. There is no doubt that Dowd has made, and will continue to make our city proud!