Steven Carosello

About Steven Carosello

I am a public policy professional and community outreach leader with a deep commitment to equity, education, and second chances. With over seven years of experience in state and local government, I have led initiatives focused on workforce development, re-entry support, technical training, and equity-centered policy, especially for communities historically underserved or disproportionately impacted by systemic challenges.As the Manager of Community Outreach at the Massachusetts Cannabis Control Commission, I develop and execute outreach strategies that engage a wide range of stakeholders — from patients and licensees to patients, community advocates, and government officials — with a focus on building inclusive and informed public policy. I previously helped shape equity initiatives as a Project Coordinator, managing the Commission’s Social Equity Program and worked on policy reform efforts related to Host Community Agreements and access to the regulated industry.Prior to this, I served in roles ranging from Reintegration Coordinator at the Worcester County Sheriff’s Office to Assessment Social Worker and LGBTQIA+ Regional Coordinator with the Massachusetts Department of Children and Families. These roles shaped my belief that meaningful public service is rooted in dedication, evidence-based policy, and real-world solutions.Outside of government, I continued my advocacy through leadership as Executive Director and Regional Board Member of EasterSeals Massachusetts and by serving on the Springfield City Council’s Subcommittee on Workforce Development, where I helped develop strategies and policies to enhance career opportunities within the City of Springfield. I hold a Master of Public Policy (MPP) with a concentration in Public Management from UMass Dartmouth, an MBA in Management from Fitchburg State University, and a B.S. in Criminal Justice. My work is driven by a lifelong passion for public service and a belief that policy, when guided by purpose and people, can be a tool for lasting change.Views expressed on this page are my own and do not reflect the views of my employer or the Commonwealth of Massachusetts.

Experience

1. Manager of Community Outreach

   Cannabis Control Commission

   Apr 2024 — Present · Worcester, MA, US

   Continued collaboration with the Director of Equity Programming and Community Outreach to develop and execute a comprehensive outreach strategy targeting communities impacted by marijuana-related offenses.• Designing and implementing a statewide strategic outreach plan, enhancing visibility and engagement for Commission programs and initiatives.• Leading multiple outreach campaigns across the Commonwealth, handling event management and stakeholder engagement at various community booths and events.• Established and maintained productive relationships with a wide range of stakeholders including community leaders, government officials, non-profits, and trade associations to promote a more equitable industry.• Developed collaborative partnerships with various community organizations to bolster support for marginalized groups and enhance program recruitment and training.• Hosted and supported numerous in-person and virtual meetings and trainings to disseminate information and engage community members.• Actively participate in community events, utilizing established networks to keep community members informed of policy developments and Commission updates.• Expanded outreach and educational opportunities through strategic partnerships, focusing on priority stakeholders.• Management of end-to-end community outreach projects, ensuring seamless planning, execution, and evaluation to meet strategic objectives.

Education

• Fitchburg State University

  Master of Business Administration - MBA, Management

  2019

• University of Massachusetts Dartmouth

  Master of Public Policy, Public Management

  2023

• Fitchburg State University

  Bachelor's degree, Criminal Justice