Title: Academic Program Manager of Mathematics

Company: Post University

Location: Waterbury, Conn.

As a woman of high standards and impeccable motivation, Danielle Rivard continues in her 24^th year of educational leadership, problem solving, and mathematics. She is currently in her fourth year as academic mathematics program manager at Post University, teaching students on-campus and online.

As a woman in today’s world, what do you feel contributed to your success ?

“I feel both of my parents never telling me I could not do something because I was a female had a lot to do with my success. I feel it was an understood expectation that I would do well and succeed in anything I put my mind to accomplishing. I was supported in most choices I made in terms of being allowed to follow my dreams and honestly I never remember being left out or not asked to play an important role because I was a female.”

What advice could you share with the younger generation of women entering the workforce?

“I believe in being one’s self and being confident is critical for all young women (and men) entering the workforce. Respect your elders and those in a position of authority. They did not get to be where they are by luck in most cases. Nothing is going to be or should be handed to you. Hard work, dedication, and sometimes blood, sweat, and tears will always pay off in the long run. Set the bar high and reach for it. Never step on others to move yourself up the ladder. It will get you nowhere. Never let those who might want to stomp on your enthusiasm bring you down or change you. Remove yourself from those situations. If someone acts as if you or your work is of lesser value because of your gender then get as far away from that person as possible and don’t look back.”

Do you belong to any organizations past or present that have made a difference in your profession?

“Every school, business, volunteer group or team sport I have participated in over the years has in some way shaped me as a person and in some ways professionally as well. I don’t believe there is one in particular that has made a big difference so to speak but I believe the overall experiences of working with so many different people and organizations has shaped me into who I am today.  Sometimes even having various experiences that may not seem too pleasant at the time in which they are occurring can be learning instruments as well.”