Congressman Richard E. Neal

2005-2010

Richard E. Neal was born in Worcester, Massachusetts on February 14, 1949 and was raised and educated in the City of Springfield. He is a 1972 graduate of American International College, where he received his Bachelor's Degree in Political Science and was a member of the National Honor Society. He received his Masters Degree in Public Administration from the Barney School of Business and Public Administration at the University of Hartford in 1976.

Mr. Neal began his public service career in 1973 as an Assistant to Springfield Mayor William C. Sullivan. In 1978, he was elected to the Springfield City Council and served as President of the Council in 1979. As Mayor of the City of Springfield from 1984 until 1989, Richard Neal was a dynamic and determined leader who combined creativity and pragmatism in developing economic, cultural and public works projects across the community. During his tenure as Mayor, new economic development and private investment exceeded $400 million, including the $110 million 28-story Monarch Place complex and a host of other downtown rehabilitation and neighborhood revitalization projects. Recognized nationally for his accomplishments as Mayor, Boston Magazine called him a "Face to Watch" in 1986. Newsweek magazine highlighted his many accomplishments as Mayor in a 1987 feature.

Richard E. Neal was first elected to the United States House of Representatives in 1988. He represents the Second District of Massachusetts, which includes cities and towns in western and central Massachusetts. He is a member of the powerful Ways and Means Committee, where he continues to play an active role in public policy debates relating to tax, trade, health care, welfare, Medicare and Social Security.

Congressman Neal is an At-Large Whip for the House Democrats. He is a co-chairman of the New England Congressional Caucus, where he continues to advocate for the unique regional interests of the six New England States.

Congressman Neal has been honored by the governments of Ireland, Israel and Italy. He has been recognized for his leadership and innovation by many civic, charitable, educational and labor organizations. He is a past president of the Massachusetts Mayors Association and the American International College Alumni Association, a Corporator of Springfield College and American International College, and a Trustee of the John Fitzgerald Kennedy Library in Boston. He serves on the Board of Directors and is a lifetime member of the Springfield Boys Club.