About the Program
Building on our record of research, independent journalism, convening, and coalition-building, MassINC established the Greg Torres Senior Fellows Program in 2024 to expand our capacity, deepen our impact, and strengthen our network across the key issues facing Massachusetts. Torres Senior Fellows are a diverse group of experienced professionals who partner with MassINC over a two-year period to explore opportunities in research, policy leadership, convening, and public-facing storytelling that elevates evidence-based ideas and strengthens civic dialogue.
Named in honor of MassINC’s former CEO and board chair, Greg Torres, the program reflects his commitment to elevating innovative, timely ideas—and to supporting talented leaders dedicated to improving the Commonwealth.
The program’s purpose is to serve as:
- A laboratory for research and journalism, exploring and testing new policy and program ideas.
- A home for a diverse cohort of community leaders across the state, seeking to engage new audiences, advance civic discourse, and gain new skills and perspectives.
- An opportunity to deepen MassINC’s ability to take on big issues, by broadening our network of thought leaders and partners.
The Legacy of Greg Torres
Greg Torres was a visionary civic leader whose life’s work centered on justice, equity, and opportunity. As President and CEO, then later as Board Chair of MassINC, Greg championed criminal justice reform, launched The MassINC Polling Group, and amplified independent journalism through CommonWealth Magazine. His leadership helped elevate Gateway Cities and shape a more inclusive policy agenda for Massachusetts. Greg brought compassion and bold thinking to every role he held.
Whether mentoring young leaders, cooking elaborate meals for friends, or telling stories on his South Dartmouth porch, Greg lived with deep generosity and joy. His legacy continues to guide all who believe in a better, more connected Commonwealth.
Meet the 2026-2028 Fellows
Lezlie Braxton Campbell
Deputy Director, Neighbor to Neighbor Massachusetts
John Grossman
Senior Fellow, Third Sector Capital Partners
Lisa Lazare
Executive Director, Educators for Excellence Massachusetts
Jonathan Lee Cozzens
Co-Founder & Managing Partner, Lee Properties
Phillip Martin
Former Senior Investigative Reporter, GBH
Stephanie Pollack
Former Secretary of Transportation, Commonwealth of Massachusetts
Past Fellow Projects & Publications
Read research, event recaps, and more from our first cohort of Greg Torres Senior Fellows.
Series of Public Convenings with GBH fORUM nETWORK
Charlotte Golar Richie is dedicated to breaking down silos and creating dialogue around some of the state’s most pressing issues facing diverse populations. See below for past discussions that center equity and positive change.
- Event Recap – Five Years Later: Reflecting on the Legacy of George Floyd
- Event Recap – Understanding Contemporary Native concerns, including harmful images, and why change matters
- Event Recap – Kick Off at the Ballot Box with AG Andrea Campbell
- Event Recap – Birthing Justice: Finding a New Way Forward
Inside Teach Western Mass’ Systems-Change Journey
Pema Latshang, founding Executive Director of Teach Western Mass, examines the organization’s decade-long journey to strengthen the educator pipeline in the Pioneer Valley through equity-driven design, strong partnerships, and regional leadership.
Reclaiming Vacant Property in Massachusetts
Dina Fein, retired Housing Court judge, brings housing and development leaders to the table to explore pathways to homeownership—revitalizing vacant homes as a key strategy for community renewal.
Solidarity in Action
Leverett Wing coauthored an op-ed with Sen. Lydia Edwards arguing that in the five years since the murder of George Floyd, gains in racial justice have eroded amid political and social backlash, making authentic solidarity across diverse communities more essential than ever to sustain and reclaim progress.
Lowering Energry Bills, Empowering people
Mary Wambui is a trusted voice in clean energy and housing equity, working with the Healey administration to bring affordable, clean energy to homes across Massachusetts.
Support the Greg Torres Opportunity Fund
Honor a legacy of bold ideas and visionary leadership by investing in changemakers committed to equity, data-driven policy, and civic vitality for the common good. Your contribution fuels MassINC's mission to advance inclusive economic growth through research, journalism, and public engagement.