A Westfield native, John graduated from Westfield High School and earned a bachelor of arts in political science from the University of South Florida and a juris doctor from Suffolk University Law School in Boston. John established an impressive record of leadership working in the Hampden County Superior Court and the Massachusetts State Treasurer’s Office, and the Westfield Commission for Citizens with Disabilities. Velis also held internships at the Hampden County District Attorney’s Office, Northwestern District Attorney’s Office and the White House.
​​Since joining the Massachusetts legislature in 2014, John has made it a central mission to provide services to our Veterans. His first major bill, the Stolen Valor Act, criminalized the impersonation of a Veteran for one’s financial gain. The following year, he was a cosponsor of the Brave Act, which provides additional support for members of the Veterans’ community and their families, including tax credits and enhanced educational opportunities like in-state tuition for Veterans. As a Veteran himself, John’s commitment is personal and unwavering.