The Edge Conference 2014

A national leader on neighborhood issues, Menino believes that government is about helping people. Elected five times as Mayor of Boston and five times as a City Councilor from Hyde Park, he has spent a lifetime building a better Boston for residents and businesses. A graduate of the University of Massachusetts Boston with a degree in community planning, Menino and his wife, the former Angela Faletra, have two children, Susan and Thomas, Jr. and six grandchildren.

Nicknamed the “Urban Mechanic” early in his career for his tireless work ethic and attention to the basics that make for a thriving city, he is working to inspire a generation of New Urban Mechanics, rooted in the belief that citizens are the best civic entrepreneurs. Forging partnerships to revitalize neighborhoods, strengthening the economy through workforce investments, and innovating in education, his vision for Boston is based on strong, welcoming communities that provide unlimited opportunity for success.

Vibrant Neighborhoods: A lifelong resident of Hyde Park, Menino understands that a city is only as strong as its neighborhoods. He ushered in the nation’s first citywide Main Streets program to support small businesses and spur local economic development.

Inclusive Opportunity: Despite Boston being more diverse than ever before, Menino’s administration is committed to bringing the city even closer together across varied backgrounds.

A Healthy, Livable City: Whether it is through innovative public health programs or progressive environmental policy, Menino has put Boston at the national forefront of healthy, livable cities.

Innovative Schools: Awarded the prestigious Broad Prize for Urban Education in 2006, the Boston Public Schools have transformed from chronically failing to one of the most respected urban districts in the nation. At every grade level, Boston has reduced class sizes and raised test scores.