Garo Armen is a pioneering biotech entrepreneur and global humanitarian whose impact spans both immuno-oncology and rural development. He is the founder and CEO of Agenus, the Massachusetts-based immuno-oncology company behind the botensilimab/balstilimab combination, one of the most promising next-generation immune activators. He also serves as Chairman of the Board of MiNK Therapeutics, advancing innovative allogeneic cell therapies for cancer and immune-mediated diseases.
Beyond biotechnology, Dr. Armen is widely celebrated for his transformative philanthropic leadership. In 2003, he founded the Children of Armenia Fund (COAF) with a bold vision to revitalize rural Armenia through education, healthcare, and community development. Under his stewardship, COAF has invested more than $100 million in programs across 100+ villages, bringing measurable improvements in education, healthcare, and economic opportunity. His work has fundamentally reshaped the socio-economic landscape of rural Armenia and set a global model for sustainable, community-driven development. A visionary at the intersection of science, business, and social impact, Garo Armen continues to influence the future of immunotherapy while uplifting generations of young Armenians.
The 100 Most Influential People in Oncology in 2025 recognizes the changemakers in cancer care who have helped shape current practice in oncology and continue to drive innovation and research towards better outcomes, advocacy, philanthropy, leadership and education. For the many deserving individuals not mentioned in this list, we will continue to acknowledge, honor and elevate your voices in our daily publications from across the world.
See the full list of The 100 Influential People in Oncology in 2025 and stay tuned for the results of special category nominations to be announced.
