Maxwell Morrongiello: From Resilience to Results
Maxwell Morrongiello's journey shows how personal challenges can become catalysts for positive change. In Franklin, Massachusetts, Max has consistently turned adversity into opportunity, working to improve local governance and inspire others through his commitment to the community.
Max is known for his honesty, reliability, and ability to bring people together. His approach to governance is shaped by his own experiences, giving him insight into a wide range of community issues. This background informs his top 3 priorities:
- Tax Relief for Residents Who Need It: Understanding financial pressures, Max supports efforts to reduce the tax burden on Franklin residents who are struggling, helping them maintain stability and quality of life.
- Transparency and Good Governance: His experience in student government, town committees, and at the State House has taught Max the importance of open, responsive government at all levels. He's committed to ensuring that Franklin's governance is transparent and accountable to all residents.
- Strengthening Community and Promoting Civility: Max believes in building a stronger, more united Franklin. He aims to foster respectful dialogue, encourage community engagement, and create an environment where all voices are heard and valued.
Max aims to do the most good for the most people, focusing on smart growth, fair taxation, and clear, achievable goals. His open-minded approach and skill at building consensus make him well-suited to tackle Franklin's complex challenges.
Born in New Jersey in 1989, Max faced early struggles in school and with peers. In 2000, his family moved to Franklin, where he began to turn his personal challenges into strengths.
Living with anxiety and Asperger's syndrome, Max learned to embrace these aspects of himself. In high school, he attended a special education program and had few social connections. After a brief stint at Framingham State University, he had to leave due to anxiety issues.
But Max didn't give up. It took 11 years after high school, but he earned his Associate's degree from Massachusetts Bay Community College, becoming an engaged member of the community. At MassBay, Max's leadership skills emerged. He took on key Student Government roles and advocated for initiatives like expanding Dean's List recognition for part-time students. With a perfect 4.0 GPA, Max was selected as the 2019 Student Commencement Speaker, sharing his story of perseverance with fellow graduates.
Building on this achievement, Max went on to earn a Bachelor's in Political Science from Bridgewater State University, again with a 4.0 GPA. His academic success reflected both his intellect and his determination.
Max's community involvement goes beyond his studies. Since 2012, he's been active in the Franklin Democratic Town Committee, now serving as Vice Chair. He organizes a 10,000-member LGBTQ meetup group in the Greater Boston area, providing a safe and welcoming space. Max also helps train police officers in crisis intervention and leads discussions on community mental health.
His political experience grew through an internship at the Massachusetts State House with Representative Jeffrey Roy. This opportunity deepened Max's understanding of state governance and built a strong working relationship with the representative.
Max Morrongiello is committed to finding practical solutions to real issues. He's overcome significant obstacles and knows how to face challenges head-on. As a town council member, Max plans to bring fresh ideas and a proactive approach to issues like tax relief, transparent governance, and community strengthening. He's ready to put in the hard work needed to make Franklin an even better place for all its residents.
(Photo of Horace Mann Plaza credit Steve Sherlock - Attribution-NonCommercial-ShareAlike 2.0 Generic)