Ryan was born in Norwalk Hospital, raised in Greenwich, and graduated from the Greenwich Public Schools. After earning a degree in economics from Northwestern University, he returned to Connecticut to work and build a life — working professionally in energy, agriculture, and shipping in Wilton and Stamford before entering public service.

Ryan has been an active volunteer for over a decade, believing that real change starts close to home. He spent seven years tutoring charter school students and served as a Meals On Wheels volunteer. He also held positions on Greenwich's Representative Town Meeting and Energy Efficiency Committee.

Ryan has been elected three times in a Democratic-leaning district, and in 2024 he defeated a $700,000 opposition campaign — proving he can win the toughest races and lead the entire state forward.