MATTHEW MCKENNA, SENIOR VICE PRESIDENT

An expert in legislative and regulatory affairs, Matthew is a seasoned government relations professional and strategic communications specialist who puts his expertise to use for a wide variety of sectors.

A U.S. Army veteran who served in Operation Enduring Freedom in Afghanistan, Matthew has worked to improve benefits for first responders, including enacting new rules to help firefighters who get cancer on the job He’s also worked to create innovative job training programs for developmentally disabled youth and adults

Matthew was also a key lobbyist for the Marijuana Policy Project that successfully legalized cannabis in Massachusetts and now advises new cannabis companies on municipal licensing, compliance, business strategy and community engagement. Additionally, he advises clients on other state and municipal matters including development projects and general union issues.

Prior to joining Tenax, Matthew worked as director of communications and intergovernmental relations for the Massachusetts Department of Veterans’ Services In that role, he worked with every state agency and the Massachusetts Legislature advocating on veterans’ issues He also worked on economic development issues, including helping launch a program with the Greater Boston Chamber of Commerce to link veterans with employment opportunities and advocating for a veteran-owned business preference for state contracting Prior to DVS, Matthew spent seven years working for state Senator Steven Tolman as his chief of staff and district director

A graduate of the University of Connecticut with a degree in political science, Matthew is a 24-year member of the U.S. Army National Guard. He currently serves as a Chief Warrant Officer 3 and a Blackhawk helicopter instructor pilot. He also serves as the Executive Director of the National Guard Association of Massachusetts and the Board President of Massachusetts Fallen Heroes.

He lives in Braintree with his wife and two children

CATHERINE FALVEY, ESQ, SENIOR ACCOUNT EXECUTIVE

Prior to joining the firm in 2021, Catherine worked in the state legislature as a staff member for the Committee on Cannabis Policy. In that role, she spent her time developing legislation and working with constituents and stakeholders of the industry. Additionally, she worked with state legislators to effectuate policy changes in different sectors including healthcare, the court system, and climate initiatives

She received her B.S. from Elon University and her J.D. from Suffolk University Law School. Catherine is a licensed attorney in both Massachusetts and New Hampshire. During her time at the state house, she also received a certificate in Regulatory Affairs in Cannabis Control from Clark University.

Catherine is originally from Norfolk, Massachusetts and currently lives in South Boston.