2026 Power 100: Ché Anderson

Assistant vice chancellor of UMass Chan Medical School

Title: Assistant vice chancellor

UMass Chan Medical School, in Worcester

Age: 36

Employees: 6,406

Central Mass. employees: 3,986

Annual revenue: $1.242 billion

Anderson sits at the intersection of education, health care, community engagement, and the arts. As UMass Chan Medical School navigates a major leadership transition, he serves as a key bridge between the institution and the broader community. Anderson’s appointment this year as chair of the Massachusetts Cultural Council has elevated his influence statewide, expanding his role in shaping cultural policy, partnerships, and investment across the commonwealth.

What unique skill sets you apart from others? Someone once described me as a social architect, and it’s that ability to connect and create across sectors and communities that sets me apart.

Why do you do business in Central Mass.? It’s my second adopted home, and a special place where a young man without connections can work hard and make his family back home proud.

Favorite book on leadership? “Unreasonable Hospitality” by Will Guidara

How do you unwind? I’ve become a runner over the last couple of years, so I like to listen to the “Acquired” podcast and get some miles in, or work out with the Challenge Yourself Fitness team.

– Digital Partners -