Aspen is a place for leaders to lift their sights above the possessions which possess them. To confront their own nature as human beings, to regain control over their own humanity by becoming more self-aware, more self-correcting, and hence more self-fulfilling.

Walter P. Paepcke, Aspen Institute Co-Founder

Michael Cole

Commissioner, Massachusetts Department of Transitional Assistance

Michael Cole is focused on operational, procedural, and digital transformation within mission-driven non-profits and government organizations. With a deep passion for improving service delivery, he excels in driving innovation and fostering positive outcomes. He holds a Master of Public Administration from the Kennedy School at Harvard and has over a decade of experience in strategic roles, including his current position as Commissioner for the Department of Transitional Assistance, the SNAP- and TANF-administering agency in Massachusetts. Michael is known for his expertise in policy development, quality management, and business intelligence, with a particular focus on addressing public challenges like poverty and food insecurity. He is skilled in leading teams through complex change, leveraging data analytics, and promoting holistic, human-centered approaches to leadership.