Issue link: https://nebusinessmedia.uberflip.com/i/1538711
16 Worcester Business Journal | August 25, 2025 | wbjournal.com 4 0 U N D E R F O R T Y Michelle Doherty, 32 Associate director in the Office of Sponsored Programs Worcester Polytechnic Institute, in Worcester Residence: Sterling Birthplace: Townsend Colleges: WPI, Clark University Michelle Doherty has been instrumental in Worcester Polytechnic Institute becoming a national research powerhouse. In her eight years at WPI, she has advanced from entry-level proposal coordinator to associate director, leading the pre-award team that helped faculty secure nearly $60 million in research funding for fiscal 2024, representing a 159% increase from the $23.16 million secured in 2016. This achievement contributed to WPI earning R1 Research Status, a rank held by only 187 colleges nationwide. Doherty manages three full-time staff members while overseeing hundreds of faculty grant applications annually, developing policies and procedures, and conducting faculty training. During the COVID pandemic, she led the transition to a fully electronic workflow process, improving data integrity and eliminating redundancy. Her work directly supports research funded by the National Science Foundation, National Institutes of Health, NASA, and the U.S. Department of Defense. As past chair of the United Way of Central Massachusetts Women's Initiative Community Impact Committee, she develops funding programs with the goal of reducing incidences of violence affecting girls ages 10-14. She serves as the chair of the Women of WPI Alumni Association and volunteers with Sterling Senior Center's Meals on Wheels program and the Friends of the Conant Public Library. Would you choose to be the oldest sibling, middle sibling, youngest sibling, or an only child? Next time around, I'd like a shot at being the younger sibling! Best restaurant in Central Mass.? The Barn Princeton Best vacation you ever took? Aruba. Give me a pina colada and my Kindle under a cabana, and I'm a happy girl! John Thomasian, 39 President & CEO Webster First Federal Credit Union, in Worcester Residence: New Braintree Birthplace: Ware College: Nichols College John Thomasian leads Webster First Federal Credit Union as one of Massachusetts' most fiscally stable credit unions while maintaining its community-focused mission. Ascending to president and CEO at age 38 in 2024, he has grown the credit union to $1.5 billion in assets under management, contributing to seven successful mergers since he first joined the credit union in 2010. His first year as CEO delivered record-breaking results: a 1.45% return on assets (the highest in the credit union's history), $3 million in year-over-year income increases, and an 18.32% capital ratio. Webster First received Newsweek's America's Best Regional Banks and Credit Unions award in both 2024 and 2025. His strategic vision extends beyond financial metrics through the enhanced charitable giving program, which donated $200,000+ in 2024 for sponsorships, community events, and charities. He also launched employee recognition programs and enhanced digital platforms to improve member experience. He serves as chairman of New Braintree's Finance Committee and board member of Eastern Corporate Federal Credit Union. What movie best describes your life journey so far? "Stand by Me" Favorite Central Mass. community? Worcester Who helped you the most in your professional journey? While I've had several mentors throughout my career, my father has always given me great advice and guidance to lead me to the success I have achieved today. Who would you most like meet in the next 40 years? For his drive and tenacity: Paul Pierce, "The Truth" PHOTO | MATT WRIGHT Tree House Brewing, in Charlton (Special thanks to Leeanne Lawrence)