Meet Sean
Sean Rose is a dedicated community leader, public servant, and advocate who has been in the helping profession since the age of 19. Growing up with a single mom and three siblings on a fixed income, Sean experienced firsthand the challenges that so many face today. Those formative years instilled in him a deep understanding of resilience and the importance of community support.
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His journey began as a paraprofessional in special education with the Boston Public Schools and as a summer counselor at a camp for unhoused children. These early experiences, combined with his upbringing, shaped Sean’s lifelong commitment to empowering individuals and breaking barriers to help people reach their full potential.
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As an At-Large City Councilor, Sean will build bridges, demonstrate balanced leadership, and create a better tomorrow. His top priorities are street safety and repair, finding strategic solutions to address the city’s housing challenges, youth opportunities through municipal infrastructure, and fiscal responsibility.
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Sean has served as the President and CEO of Thrive Support & Advocacy since 2020. He leads a team dedicated to helping youth and adults with intellectual disabilities, developmental disabilities, and autism live rich and active lives through Thrive’s continuum of care. Under his leadership, Thrive has expanded its programs, embraced diversity, and strengthened its mission to serve the community.
As Worcester’s District 1 City Councilor from 2018 to 2023, Sean dedicated himself to creating a more inclusive, sustainable, and vibrant community. He championed initiatives to expand housing options, support youth programs, and promote sustainability. Serving as Chair of the Economic Development, Municipal Operations, and Veterans’ Memorials and Parks Standing Committees, Sean gained valuable experience in working together and building bridges to get things done. His efforts helped secure significant public and private investments, driving economic growth while prioritizing opportunities for families and young people across the city.
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The father of four daughters founded Worcester Union Athletics in 2018, a softball program that helps girls and young women build confidence on and off the diamond. Since its establishment, the program's more than 500 players have completed thousands of community service hours in Worcester and beyond.
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An active community member, Sean serves on the boards of the Planting the Seed Foundation, the Association of Developmental Disabilities Providers (ADDP), the Providers’ Council, and the EcoTarium. He is actively involved with the Worcester Business Development Council (WBDC) and the Guild of St. Agnes, and is an alumnus of the 365Z Foundation. Sean is also a member of District Attorney Early’s Opioid Task Force.
Sean earned a Bachelor’s Degree in Liberal Arts from Lesley University and a Master’s Degree in Education and School Administration from American International College. He is a certified school principal and superintendent. Sean, his wife, Maureen, and their four daughters are deeply rooted in the Worcester community.
