2010 40 Under Forty: Daniel Ricciardi

Investment Analyst, College of the Holy Cross

Company location: Worcester

Residence: Holden

Age: 26

Career highlights: After graduating from Holy Cross in 2006, I went on to work as a trust specialist at BNY Mellon. Supporting cash management, accounting and operational functions for pension, endowment and foundation clients, I became supervisor of my team in 2008. I was thrilled to have the opportunity to return to my alma mater when the position opened up in late 2008.

Community involvement: I take great joy in working with my autistic brother, Michael, and his fellow residents at his group home run by the Seven Hills Foundation. Additionally, my family and I take the opportunity whenever possible to advocate for rights and services for special needs adults.

Biggest success: I’d have to say that my biggest professional successes to date have been the contributions I’ve been able to make to the Holy Cross community. In working for Holy Cross you feel like you are a part of something much greater than simply generating investment returns. As we manage the endowment, we are preserving the ability for the college to continue its mission well into the future.

Biggest challenge: Having started in the investment office in September 2008, I’d have to say that my biggest professional challenge to date has been working through the financial crisis, particularly the last few months of 2008.

Mentors: I’ve been extremely lucky to have a number of wonderful mentors over the years. From Professor Ross Beales, my advisor in the history department while I was a student, to Bill Durgin and Tim Jarry, my colleagues in the investment office, I’ve learned that critical thinking, dedication and hard work are the foundations of any successful enterprise in life.