Arthur E. Chase (February 4, 1930 – January 5, 2015) was an American businessman and Republican politician from central Massachusetts. He is best known for his service in the Massachusetts Senate representing the Worcester District from 1991 to 1995 and for his persistent advocacy of regional cooperation and advanced education in mathematics and science. Chase combined private‑sector experience with public service, advocating practical, locally oriented solutions to economic and educational challenges.

Early life and business career

Born in 1930, Chase spent much of his life in central Massachusetts where he was active in local business and civic life before entering elective office. His background in the private sector informed his approach to public policy, emphasizing efficient management, partnerships between public and private institutions, and investment in human capital as a means to strengthen regional economies.

State senate and regional work

Chase served one term in the Massachusetts Senate in the early 1990s. During his tenure he co‑founded the Central Massachusetts Legislative Caucus, a group organized to coordinate policy priorities among legislators from the region. The caucus sought to promote shared interests in transportation, economic development, and education, and to ensure that central Massachusetts had a stronger collective voice in statewide decision making.

Massachusetts Academy of Math and Science

One of Chase's most enduring contributions was his role in creating the Massachusetts Academy of Math and Science at Worcester Polytechnic Institute. In the early 1990s he helped develop the concept for a public program that would provide high‑achieving secondary students with accelerated study in mathematics, science, and related fields. Chase sponsored legislation in 1992 that led to the academy's establishment as a residential, academically rigorous option closely affiliated with WPI. The program has since been cited as an example of a state‑university partnership designed to cultivate STEM talent and to provide students access to college‑level resources while still in secondary school.

1994 campaign, later activity and legacy

In 1994 Chase was the Republican nominee for Secretary of the Commonwealth of Massachusetts; he was defeated in the general election by William F. Galvin. After leaving elected office Chase continued to be involved in civic and educational initiatives in the region, often speaking in favor of programs that linked secondary and higher education and that supported workforce development. He died in January 2015 and is remembered locally for promoting collaborative approaches to education and regional planning.

For additional background on his public service and the academy he helped to found, see related resources.

  • Born: February 4, 1930
  • Died: January 5, 2015
  • Office: Massachusetts Senate, Worcester District (1991–1995)
  • Notable: Co‑founder, Central Massachusetts Legislative Caucus; sponsor of legislation establishing the Massachusetts Academy of Math and Science at WPI
  • Party: Republican