Worcester Business Journal

wbjournal.com | June 8, 2026 | Worcester Business Journal 5 Ed Augustus Jr. CEO UniBank, in Whitinsville Age: 61 Employees: 278 Central Mass. employees: 269 Assets: $3 billion Augustus brought one of the most recognizable names in Central Massachusetts public life into banking when he became CEO of UniBank in March. His background as Worcester city manager, Dean College chancellor, and the first secretary of the Mass. Executive Office of Housing and Livable Communities gives him unusually broad insight into housing, municipal government, higher edu- cation, and regional economic development, along with a long list of community connections. In 2025, UniBank surpassed $3 billion in assets and donated $800,000 to more than 400 nonprofits. - B.K. What unique skill sets you apart from others? Collaboration may be cliché, but it is imperative. I rely on subject matter experts and their experience when working toward organizational goals. What is one habit powerful leaders should prac- tice every day? Take time to review your decisions, actions, and impact on others. Consistent self-aware- ness builds stronger and more trusted leadership. Why do you do business in Central Mass.? Uni- Bank has been rooted in Central Massachusetts for more than 156 years and has helped neighbors achieve their financial goals while supporting local nonprofits. David Brunelle Managing director & co-founder North Pointe Wealth Management, in Worcester Founded: 2001 Residence: Paxton When the University of Massachusetts needed to find the successor for Dr. Michael Collins aer his historic 19-year tenure leading UMass Chan Med- ical School in Worcester, leadership relied on one man to head the search committee: David Brunelle. Although oen behind the scenes, Brunelle has been an influential figure in the Central Massa- chusetts business community for nearly all of this century. When Worcester-based Commerce Bank was acquired by Boston-based Berkshire Hills Ban- corp for $209 million in 2017, Brunelle was one of two Commerce board members to transition to the Berkshire board. He then became Berkshire chair in 2021 and remains in that role today, including aer Berkshire Hills' merger with Brookline Bancorp and the creation of Beacon Financial Corp. and Beacon Bank. In the community, he is chair of the nonprofit Worcester City Campus Corp. and serves on the UMass board of trustees. As head of the UMass Chan chancellor search, Brunelle led a 20-member committee that included two former lieutenant governors, the UMass Am- herst chancellor, and a Nobel laureate. eir work resulted in the selection of Dr. David McManus, who took over as chancellor at the end of May. - B.K. Mary Dean President & CEO Clinton Savings Bank, in Clinton Age: 56 Employees: 102 Assets: $741 million, as of Dec. 31 Dean made history in 2025 when she became the first female president and CEO in Clinton Sav- ings Bank's 175-year history. Since taking the role, she has strengthened the bank's leadership team, expanded its presence in the community through board service, and implemented strategic planning initiatives aimed at long-term growth. She has raised her and the bank's visibility by joining the boards of the Community Foundation of North Central Mass., the Worcester Business Development Corp. and the Icon Museum and Study Center. - B.K. What unique skill sets you apart from others? My ability to sing. I have been a cantor at church for more than 40 years. What is one habit powerful leaders should practice every day? Empathy. Understanding the perspectives of colleagues and customers creates stronger relationships and a positive culture. Why do you do business in Central Mass.? Clin- ton Savings Bank was founded in Clinton in 1851, and Central Massachusetts has remained our home ever since. How do you unwind? I unwind by taking my dog on walks and escaping into good books. Eric Torkornoo Senior vice president and commercial relationship manager Fidelity Bank, in Worcester Headquarters: Leominster Age: 57 Employees: 550 Central Mass. employees: 117 Annual revenue: $97Million Torkornoo's influence extends well beyond commercial banking. While helping businesses secure capital and advance growth plans through Fidelity Bank, he has become one of Worcester's most active civic leaders. An immigrant from Ghana, he was the first African American to chair both the Worcester Club and the Worcester Regional Research Bureau and serves on numerous boards such as the Greater Worces- ter Community Foundation and the Worcester Regional Chamber of Commerce, helping shape the region's business, nonprofit, and community development landscape. - Story written by Brad Kane What unique skill sets you apart? Ability to connect people, capital, and ideas across business, civic, and com- munity circles while staying grounded and approachable. What is one habit powerful leaders should practice every day? Powerful leaders should practice intentional listening and servitude every day, creating lasting influ- ence beyond titles and authority. Why do you do business in Central Mass.? Worcester gave me opportunity, and by investing in its businesses, institutions, and people, we strengthen the region for future generations. How do you unwind? Meditate. B A N K I N G & F I N A N C E P OW E R 1 0 0 "True power is not control. It is responsibility. It is ability to serve, create opportunities, influence positive change, while remaining humble and accountable to the people I serve." - Eric Torkornoo, Fidelity Bank PHOTO | COURTESY OF FIDELITY BANK

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