Alumni Spotlight, Danielle Conklin ’00: A Life in Data Science and Technology 

By Danielle Conklin '00

As part of our Alumni Spotlight Series, Gill St. Bernard's recently sat down with Danielle Conklin, a GSB Class of 2000 graduate, whose interest in math and science has taken her from her hardest class at GSB (physics with her dad, Mr. Bostian) to a career in data science and information technology with Quility Insurance. 

How did you land at GSB?   

I joined GSB as a freshman in high school, a little later in my academic journey. One of the most memorable parts of my time there was having my dad, Mr. Bostian—who taught math and science in the Upper School—as my physics teacher. It was a unique and special experience I’ll always cherish! 

Do you have a favorite GSB memory?     

Some of my favorite memories from GSB are with my best friend Vanessa Kian—like being business managers for the school paper, breaking the record for most ads sold (with frequent celebratory Wendy’s Frosty runs), senior lunches at the Gladstone Tavern, and our unforgettable April Fools’ edition claiming we were actually Siamese twins! 

My time at Gill was filled with incredible moments, surrounded by amazing classmates and inspiring teachers. When I look back, what stands out most—beyond the laughter and milestones—is the beauty of the campus and the warmth of the close-knit community we were so lucky to be part of. 

What was your favorite class?   

I may be a little biased as his daughter, but taking Physics with my dad, Mr. Bostian, was one of the most meaningful experiences of my time at GSB. He truly cared about every student and was deeply committed to making a difference in how we learned. He was easily my toughest teacher—but also the one who taught me the most. 

Tell us about the Spring Units you took part in.    

The one Unit that will always stay with me is the unforgettable trip to Portugal with Vanessa Kian and Emily Siegel, where we spent 10 incredible days exploring castles in Sintra and Lisbon, followed by a few relaxing days by the ocean in the Algarve. The Unit is such a special and unique way for students to get exposure to other parts of the world and learn new things.  

How did GSB prepare you for the working world?   

GSB laid the foundation for my college success by creating an environment where students were treated as thoughtful, capable individuals. The school’s emphasis on intellectual curiosity and accountability pushed me to think deeply, express myself clearly, and manage my time with purpose. With its demanding academics and a culture of open dialogue, GSB taught me not just how to study—but how to engage. The habits I formed there—coming to class prepared, listening with intent, and contributing with confidence—became the blueprint for how I approached every challenge in college and beyond. 

Tell us a little about what you do now.  

I currently serve as the Chief Information Officer at Quility Insurance, where my team and I are driving the evolution of our platform by harnessing cloud infrastructure, advanced analytics, and data science to fuel transformative initiatives. Before joining Quility, I led enterprise-wide analytics and data science efforts at Prudential, delivering impactful solutions in areas such as Long-Term Care and Disability fraud detection, as well as enhancing Pension Risk Transfer capabilities. 

Throughout my career, I’ve held leadership roles focused on using technology to deliver meaningful results and build robust data ecosystems at respected organizations including Honeywell, Dun & Bradstreet, Russell Investments, Bloomberg, and Merrill Lynch. 

I’m also passionate about cultivating talent and supporting career growth—mentoring and developing others is a priority I carry with pride. 

What would be your advice to current GSB students be?     

Take full advantage of the unique environment at GSB—both inside and outside the classroom. 

Immerse yourself in the opportunities to learn, grow, and lead. Don’t be afraid to speak up, ask questions, and explore subjects that inspire you. The habits you build here—being prepared, thinking critically, listening with empathy—will carry you far in life. Choose a university and a career path that genuinely excites you and aligns with who you are! 

And most importantly, appreciate the sense of community and the natural beauty around you. Years from now, you’ll look back and realize just how special this place truly is.