Three Join Board of Trustees

Dan, you’ve been with State Street Global Advisors for more than 25 years. What keeps you passionate about your work?

I always try to keep in mind the end purpose of what we do. We’re managing money for people, but what is that money for? It’s about how people save for retirement or college, for example. All of this money has a use or a purpose, and it’s interesting to be able to influence those things to make sure we’re putting together good investment outcomes for people to do all the things they’ve been planning for. It gives the industry a lot of responsibility and trust.

You’ve been a member of Bentley’s Business Advisory Council and, now, the Board of Trustees. Why have you stayed so involved?

Earning an MBA at Bentley was a good springboard for my career development, and giving back is important. I have also enjoyed being a part of the big-picture conversation about Bentley’s mission. Education is very important to me, and higher education is at a crossroads, particularly with COVID. I want to be a part of helping ensure that, going forward, people have access to the same high-quality Bentley education that I had — and more.

Melanie, your work at Liberty Mutual centers on diversity, equity and inclusion (DEI) initiatives. What’s it been like seeing DEI gain momentum during the past year?

While it is painful to witness the events that have served as a catalyst to this gain in momentum, I am encouraged by the level of investment, transparency and commitment to making things better for all people. Making real progress in this space will require everyone to be open to exploring and trying on new perspectives, sharpening their DEI skills and challenging the status quo —especially when it is uncomfortable. I believe that it’s only when the work gets hard that real progress is being made if it were easy, we would not still be living in a world with systemic injustice.

You have served on the university’s Business Advisory Council and as Liberty Mutual liaison to the Gloria Cordes Larson Center for Women and Business. Why stay connected?

Bentley’s commitment to learning and making the world a better place resonates with me. I want to give back to the institution and support the students who, like me, share the same values and aspire to excellence.

Bill, in 2020 MetLife hosted a major conference on women in tech. Has the industry become more diverse?

The needle really hasn’t moved on diversifying the industry. We have so much more to do to attract, develop and retain women in technology. In fact, data show that we’ve lost ground during the pandemic, so we must identify practical solutions to reverse the trend. I’m personally committed to diversity and inclusion, and I’m pleased that Bentley is as well.

Why did you say “yes” to joining the board?

Bentley takes amazing kids and turns them into business leaders. It really was my ticket to the life that I love today. In fact, not only did I meet my wife there, but her sister and my brothers went to Bentley. We’re truly a Bentley family. At the end of the day, the school gave me a lot, and I need to give back.