Paul Belsito when he won WBJ's 40 Under Forty award in 2012

Belsito in 2019

Photo | Erika Sidor From the 20th anniversary of WBJ's 40 Under Forty are (from left) 2019 winner Kristie Lee Laskes, 2019 winner Ricky Gala, 2012 alumni Paul Belsito, 2001 alumni Kristine Bostek and 2019 winner Jessica Rubinow at Worcester County Club.

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Click here to read about the other featured alumni from the WBJ 40 Under Forty 20th anniversary edition and meet this year's winners
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Paul Belsito

Then: Manager, community relations at The Hanover Insurance Group

Now: President of The Hanover Insurance Group Foundation for The Hanover Insurance Group, Worcester

After winning 40 Under Forty, Belsito became the head of the $5.4-billion global insurance firm’s charitable arm. In hanovthat position, he leads the company’s efforts to improve the lives of the Worcester’s youth and to be a catalyst for growth. That has resulted in the Hanover Insurance Academy of the Arts, a collaboration with Worcester Public Schools designed for gifted students to focus their education through the arts. Belsito’s work at the foundation includes annual grants to local and national organizations, including $78,000 in funds distributed to Greater Worcester causes this year, including the Worcester Center for Performing Arts, Discover Central Massachusetts and the Massachusetts LGBT Chamber of Commerce. Last year, the foundation awarded $110,000 in local grants. Belsito serves on boards for the Nativity School of Worcester, the Worcester Economic Club, the EcoTarium and Greater Worcester Community Foundation. – Profile written by Zachary Comeau

What is your proudest accomplishment? Being a father. Since receiving the 40 under Forty, our family of two became a family of three. There is no greater joy, and it is awesome.

What did 40 Under Forty mean to you? It was an honor to be recognized for my role in contributing to our great city.

What advice do you have for this year’s winners? Show up, get engaged and graciously give back.