Garo H. Armen

Dr. Garo Armen is the Chairman and Chief Executive Officer of Agenus Inc., a biotechnology company he co-founded in 1994, focused on pioneering immunotherapies to fight cancer. One of Agenus’ most groundbreaking achievements is the development of the BOT/BAL combination therapy, which has demonstrated remarkable success in difficult-to-treat cancers, including metastatic colorectal cancer. This therapy reawakens the immune system’s natural ability to fight cancer, representing a significant advancement in the treatment of cancers that were once considered insurmountable. Dr. Armen is also the Chairman of Mink Therapeutics, which is developing novel cell therapies that modulate immune responses. These therapies aim to treat both cancer and a range of immune disorders, providing a new approach to managing complex diseases. Dr. Armen has made significant contributions to corporate leadership. He spearheaded the restructuring of Elan Corporation, plc, guiding the company through a critical period that ultimately saved it from collapse. He also serves as the Executive Chairman of Protagenic Therapeutics, a company focused on therapies for neurological and metabolic disorders. Dr. Armen began his career at Brookhaven National Laboratory after earning his Ph.D. in Physical Chemistry from the City University of New York. He later transitioned to Wall Street, where he founded Armen Partners, a firm specializing in healthcare investments. His efforts resulted in key industry mergers, including the union of Immunex Corporation and Lederle Oncology. == Humanitarian work ==

Dr. Armen founded the Children of Armenia Fund (COAF) in 2003, with a vision to revitalize rural Armenia. Through grassroots initiatives, COAF has implemented over $100 million worth of projects, dramatically improving education, healthcare, and social programs across more than 100 villages. These efforts have empowered young Armenians and strengthened their communities, fundamentally altering the socio-economic landscape of rural Armenia. == Honors ==

In 2024, Armen received the World Innovation, Technology and Services Alliance's highest award, the Eminent Person Award. In 2016, the Immigrant Learning Center in Malden, MA named Armen an Immigrant Entrepreneur of the Year. In 2004, Armen received the prestigious Ellis Island Medal of Honor for his humanitarian efforts in Armenia. In 2002, Ernst & Young recognized Armen as the NYC Biotechnology Entrepreneur of the Year. == Early life ==

Born in Istanbul, Turkey, in 1953, Dr. Armen moved to the United States in 1970, where his career has spanned scientific innovation, corporate leadership, and philanthropy. == References ==